FDA Reports GH¢70 Million Surplus Amid Warnings Over Hazardous Plantain Ripening Chemicals

The Food and Drugs Authority (FDA) of Ghana has announced a significant financial milestone, recording a GH¢70 million surplus for the 2025 fiscal year. This represents a 51% increase from the GH¢46 million surplus reported the previous year. During the FDA’s Annual Stakeholders’ Meeting in Accra, Deputy Director of Finance Samuel Adom-Siaw revealed that total assets have risen to GH¢358 million, while liabilities have seen a notable decrease. Despite a total revenue of GH¢420 million, the Authority faced a GH¢95 million shortfall against its projected targets, a discrepancy largely attributed to recent currency fluctuations. While the financial outlook remains robust, the FDA warned that outdated laboratory equipment and the persistent influx of illicit products continue to pose significant operational challenges.

In tandem with its financial reporting, the FDA has intensified its regulatory enforcement, specifically targeting hazardous food handling practices in local markets. A recent survey conducted at Accra’s Madina market revealed the unauthorized use of chemicals, such as Ethemax, to artificially accelerate the ripening of plantains. The Authority cautioned market women against this practice, noting that improper mixtures of ripening agents can lead to serious health complications for consumers. In addition to Ethemax, the FDA highlighted the extreme dangers associated with acetylene, another harmful substance used by some traders. Rather than imposing immediate bans, the FDA is prioritizing education, with training sessions scheduled to teach traders safer agricultural and handling practices.

The rise in chemical-related food safety concerns has prompted calls for greater consumer vigilance. CDA Consult, a prominent advocacy group, has underscored that government regulation alone is insufficient to protect public health. Through its campaign, "The Trust Economy: Verify Before You Buy," the organization is urging Ghanaians to transition from passive purchasing to active verification of product safety. Executive Director Francis Ameyibor argued that fostering a culture of authentication among consumers is essential for reducing health risks and maintaining market integrity. The group is seeking broader collaboration with stakeholders to ensure that safety standards are upheld across the country’s food supply chain.

Moving forward, the FDA aims to leverage its financial surplus to modernize its facilities and strengthen its regulatory oversight. With over 24,000 product applications processed in the past year, the Authority is focused on upgrading its laboratory infrastructure to better detect illicit products and contaminants. By combining increased financial capacity with stakeholder collaboration and public education, the FDA and organizations like CDA Consult hope to create a more transparent and safer marketplace for all Ghanaians. These efforts reflect a broader commitment to public health safety under the current administration, ensuring that economic growth in the health sector translates into tangible protections for the citizenry.