FDA Clarifies Viral Video: Cement-Preserved Beans Not Linked to Ghana

The Food and Drugs Authority (FDA) of Ghana has officially clarified that a disturbing viral video circulating on social media, which shows beans being preserved with a white powder resembling cement, did not originate within the country. Following an investigative review of the footage, the Authority confirmed that the practices and language depicted are foreign to Ghanaian food standards and do not reflect local agricultural or preservation methods. This statement aims to quell public anxiety regarding the safety of bean supplies in the Ghanaian market and reassure consumers that local standards remain intact. In its assessment, the FDA highlighted several alarming hygiene and safety violations showcased in the video. The footage depicts individuals handling food products with bare hands while using unidentified chemicals without any protective gear. The FDA emphasized that such unhygienic methods are strictly prohibited and do not align with the approved food safety protocols mandated for retailers and producers in Ghana. The Authority noted that the use of cement or any industrial powder for food preservation is not only unapproved but also poses significant health risks to consumers. Reassuring the public of its commitment to food safety, the FDA reaffirmed that it maintains rigorous oversight of food products on the market. The Authority urged consumers to remain vigilant and avoid panic, noting that the unsafe methods seen in the video are not part of any recognized agricultural practices in the country. To ensure continued safety, the FDA has called on the public to report any suspicious food handling or preservation activities to their offices. They reiterated their dedication to protecting public health and ensuring that all food products sold in Ghana meet the required quality and safety standards.