The Food and Drugs Authority (FDA) has confiscated smoked and salted (dried) fish processed under unhygienic conditions after a viral video exposed unsafe food handling practices.
The Authority said it became aware of the footage showing individuals processing smoked and dried fish in unsanitary conditions and immediately dispatched a rapid response team to the scene on Monday, July 27, in collaboration with the Tema Metropolitan Assembly and the Ghana Police Service.
According to the FDA, the operation resulted in the immediate confiscation of fish that had been exposed to unhygienic conditions to prevent the products from reaching consumers.
The Authority also educated the fish processors on the public health risks associated with unsafe processing practices and announced plans to engage fish processors and fishmongers across the identified coastal districts on good hygiene practices to improve food safety.
The FDA noted that similar incidents have occurred in the past and reaffirmed its commitment to working with partner agencies to protect public health through enforcement and public education.
The Authority advised consumers to purchase smoked and dried fish only from reputable and hygienic sources, inspect fish carefully before buying, and avoid products with offensive odours, unusual colouring or signs of spoilage.
Consumers were also encouraged to wash smoked or dried fish thoroughly before cooking and ensure it is adequately cooked before consumption.
The FDA further urged the public to report any suspected unhygienic food processing, storage or sale to the nearest FDA office or local assembly.
Reassuring the public, the Authority said it will continue to strengthen enforcement activities with its partner agencies to remove unsafe fish and fish products from the market and safeguard public health.
“We assure the public that together with our collaborating agencies, unsafe fish and fish products will be removed from the market, while enforcement activities are strengthened to protect public health and safety,” the FDA stated.
