By Priscilla Oye Ofori, GNA
Accra, Aug. 17, GNA – The Food and Drugs Authority (FDA) has warned against using chemicals to force-ripen plantain, citing potential food safety risks.
The warning follows investigations into a viral video showing the use of a chemical substance to ripen plantain at Madina Market.
In a statement signed by its Chief Executive Officer and copied to the Ghana News Agency (GNA), the FDA said it worked with the Environmental Health Unit of the La Nkwantanang-Madina Municipal Assembly to trace Ethemax, a product containing Ethephon 480 g/L SL as its active ingredient.
The FDA said Ethemax was registered as a plant growth regulator and carried a “Harmful” hazard warning.
It said using the product at incorrect concentrations or on commodities for which it was not approved could result in unacceptable chemical residues and compromise food safety.
“We caution against the indiscriminate use of chemicals or other substances to accelerate plantain ripening, as any inappropriate use may result in unacceptable chemical residues and potentially compromise food safety,” it stated.
“We engaged traders in the market, and the individual featured in the video to establish the veracity or otherwise of the said video,” It said.
The FDA said it had identified the trader involved in the sale and distribution of the product at the market and was working with the relevant authorities to take regulatory action against persons engaged in its unauthorised sale and misuse.
It urged consumers to buy fruits and vegetables from trusted sources and wash fresh produce thoroughly with potable water before consumption.
The Authority advised traders and the public to use agricultural chemicals strictly in line with approved label instructions.
“The FDA will not hesitate to apply the requisite sanctions under such circumstances,” it warned.
The FDA said it would intensify food safety education and market surveillance to protect public health.
It urged members of the public to report suspected unsafe food handling or chemical misuse to the nearest FDA office or through its official contact numbers.
Reports on unhygienic practices or other activities that may compromise public health and safety may be made on 0551112224/5.
GNA
Edited by Kenneth Sackey
By Priscilla Oye Ofori
[email protected]