The Food and Drugs Authority (FDA) has seized unregistered confectionery shaped like cigarettes during an enforcement operation in Accra, leading to the arrest of one person.
The product, identified as a “Cigarette Rod Lollipop,” was found being sold without the required registration and regulatory approval from the FDA.
The seizure forms part of the Authority’s efforts to prevent the sale and distribution of unregistered food products and protect consumers from products that may pose health and safety concerns.
The cigarette-like design of the confectionery has also raised concerns over its potential appeal to children and young people, particularly because of its resemblance to tobacco products.
The FDA has warned traders, importers and distributors to ensure that all food and confectionery products offered for sale in Ghana are properly registered and comply with the country’s food safety and labelling requirements.
The arrested suspect has been placed in police custody as investigations continue. The FDA has also urged the public to remain vigilant and report suspected cases of unregistered food products to the Authority.
The Authority says further enforcement action will be taken where violations of food safety regulations are established.
Consumers have been encouraged to check product labels and registration details before purchasing confectionery and other regulated food products.
