General Overview
The Food and Drugs Authority (FDA) in Ghana ensures the safety, quality, and efficacy of food, medicines, and other regulated products. The report highlights FDA’s operational performance, regulatory initiatives, partnerships, and public health interventions during 2023.
Key Nutrition Points
- Food Safety Coordination and Consumer Education
- In 2023, 44 food safety alerts were issued, representing a 69.23% increase compared to 2022. These alerts highlighted foodborne disease outbreaks caused by pathogens such as Vibrio cholera, Staphylococcus aureus, Salmonella, and Anthrax.
- Investigations into foodborne outbreaks increased by 67%, with a 130% rise in affected individuals and four fatalities, particularly in high-risk environments like schools and prisons.
- Public education campaigns on food safety reached over 3.91 million individuals, exceeding the annual target by 146%.
- Progressive Licensing Scheme for Food Products
- The FDA supported Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) in food production, registering 145 new food products under the Progressive Licensing Scheme. This scheme ensures safer market entries for locally produced foods.
- Market Surveillance and Quality Control
- The FDA conducted 2,889 market surveillance outings in 2023, a 117% increase from 2022, visiting 26,313 outlets nationwide. This effort identified 38,105 non-compliant products, a 60% decrease from 2022 due to improved compliance.
- The Centre for Laboratory Services tested 5,555 samples in 2023, with an improved testing rate of 93%. The focus included food products, medicines, and other regulated substances.
- Nutrition and Food Manufacturing Training
- Over 371 participants from 130 food manufacturing companies were trained in Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP).
- 641 participants from food service establishments were trained in food safety and hygiene.
- Capacity Strengthening in Food Regulation
- Collaborations with international bodies such as UNICEF supported the enforcement and dissemination of the Breastfeeding Code (LI 1667) and contributed to celebrating World Breastfeeding Day.
- Tackling Malnutrition and Foodborne Illness
- The FDA collaborated with global partners to enhance public health interventions targeting nutritional deficiencies, particularly among vulnerable populations.
Achievements Related to Nutrition
- Design and implementation of food labeling and policy guidelines, supporting healthier diets.
- Strengthening public awareness of safe food handling practices in schools, marketplaces, and transport hubs.
- Collaborative initiatives with UNICEF to address infant nutrition and breastfeeding practices.
