Overview
The document outlines the Ghana Standards Board (Food, Drugs, and Other Goods) General Labelling Rules, 1992 (L.I. No. 1541). It establishes regulations for labeling prepackaged food, drugs, and other goods to ensure transparency and protect consumer rights in Ghana. The rules provide detailed guidelines on what information must appear on product labels, who is responsible for labeling, and the consequences of non-compliance.
Subsections
- General Labeling Requirements (Part I)
This section specifies the mandatory labeling details for prepackaged food and drugs. Labels must include:
- Product name
- List of ingredients or active drug components
- Expiry and manufacture dates
- Storage conditions
- Usage instructions
- Net content
- Batch numbers
- Country of origin
- Producer or distributor’s contact information.
- Labeling of Other Goods (Part II)
This part extends labeling requirements to non-food goods, such as household items, electronic appliances, and other specified goods. It outlines mandatory details similar to food and drugs, including product name, batch number, content measurements, storage instructions, and the country of origin.
- General Provisions for Labeling (Part III)
This section emphasizes the need for labels to be clear, indelible, and in English. For small packages, outer packaging must bear the necessary labeling information. It also gives the Ghana Standards Board the authority to enforce these rules and appoint inspectors.
- Enforcement and Penalties
Inspectors have the power to enter premises, inspect goods, and seize items that do not comply with the labeling rules. Importers of non-compliant goods are given a 28-day window to correct or re-export the goods. Non-compliance after this period results in seizure and possible forfeiture.
- Exemptions
Certain goods, including personal effects, non-commercial quantities of food or drugs, and used items, are exempted from the labeling requirements
- Penalties for Non-Compliance
Individuals obstructing an inspector or assisting in rule violations face penalties, including fines up to ¢200,000 or imprisonment for up to 12 months.
- Schedules
The schedules list goods covered under the labeling rules, including gas cookers, refrigerators, electric fans, paints, body creams, and various household electrical appliances.
