The Food and Drugs Authority (FDA) has issued a stern reminder to all food service establishments in Ghana that any advertisement of food products without prior approval from the Authority constitutes a violation of the FDA Guidelines for the Advertisement of Regulated Products and Section 100 (2) of the Public Health Act, 2012 (Act 851).
This regulation mandates that no person shall advertise food unless the advertisement has been explicitly approved by the FDA.
In a statement, the Chief Executive Officer of the FDA, Dr. Delese Darko, emphasized that the directive applies to all businesses that store, prepare, package, serve, or sell food for human consumption.
These include restaurants, bakeries, canteens, online food vendors, institutional catering services, and fast-food establishments.
"All food service establishments must seek FDA approval for their advertisements across all media platforms by no later than December 1, 2024. This applies to advertisements on billboards, social media, and other mediums," Dr. Darko stated.
According to the FDA, approved advertisements will remain valid for one year and must be renewed thereafter.
Media presenters are also reminded that any live presenter mentions (LPMs) intended to promote FDA-regulated products must adhere to scripts approved by the Authority.
Enforcement and Penalties
The FDA has warned that failure to comply with these regulations will result in severe penalties. Under Section 129 of Act 851, violators may face a fine ranging from 7,500 to 15,000 penalty units, or imprisonment for a term between 15 and 25 years, or both.
"We will rigorously enforce these provisions to protect public health and safety," Dr. Darko reiterated, calling on the public to report any unauthorized advertisements or violations.
The FDA also urged vigilance regarding the affected batch of Benylin Paediatric Syrup, advising the public to report any issues to FDA offices nationwide.
The FDA appreciates the cooperation of food service businesses and the public in ensuring compliance with these essential health regulations.
Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith
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