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In a recent operation aimed at safeguarding public health, particularly the well-being of infants, the Food and Drugs Authority (FDA) seized over 5,000 unapproved diapers from retailers across Tamale. The sweep comes amid growing concerns about the rising number of unregistered products being sold to unsuspecting consumers.
FDA officials conducted inspections at various shops and market outlets, ensuring that baby diapers met the required registration, labeling, and safety standards. During the operation, several products were found lacking proper registration, featuring incorrect or absent labeling, and failing to meet FDA approval. These unapproved products pose serious health risks to infants, including skin irritations and infections.
Meshack Gandaa, the Principal Regulatory Officer of the FDA, described the situation as widespread and issued a stern warning to traders, emphasizing that those caught selling unapproved items would face regulatory action. “Consumers should always check for FDA registration numbers on products. If a product fails to meet regulatory standards, it should be reported to the nearest FDA office,” he urged.
The FDA has assured the public that all seized products will be safely disposed of, while investigations are ongoing to track down the sources, including importers and distributors. “We are not just confiscating these products; we are taking steps to trace those responsible for their importation and distribution so we can address the problem from the root,” Gandaa added.
Some affected retailers, such as Zeliya Inusah, who had 20 packs of diapers seized, expressed their concerns, claiming they were unaware that the products were unapproved. Inusah stated that she had purchased them from a supplier she believed to be trustworthy and called for leniency. She also suggested that the FDA’s enforcement efforts should be directed more towards suppliers than retailers. Other traders echoed similar sentiments, requesting more public education to help them identify approved products and avoid violating regulations unknowingly.
The FDA confirmed that the operation will continue in Tamale as part of ongoing efforts to ensure that only safe and approved products are available to consumers.
Story by Efua Nessa
Source :Loco tv