More than 500,000 cedis worth of expired and unwholesome products have been destroyed by the Food and Drugs Authority, FDA, at Gbalahi in Tamale, Northern Regional capital.
The disposed products included pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, herbal medicines, medical devices, canned tomatoes, and other expired items.
The items were confiscated during routine market surveillance and monitoring operations in the region.
The disposal exercise was carried out in collaboration with the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), ensuring that environmentally sound disposal protocols were followed. Principal Regulatory Officer and Head of the FDA’s Enforcement Unit, Gandaa Meshark, emphasized that such actions are crucial in preventing harmful products from reaching the public.
He expressed concern over the persistent abuse of tramadol, despite ongoing public education efforts. Mr. Meshark urged consumers to use medications only under professional medical guidance, reminding them to check expiry dates and regulatory approval information before purchasing products.
The FDA re-assured the public of its continued vigilance in market surveillance to ensure that only safe products are available. This collaborative effort between the FDA and the EPA highlights the importance of partnerships in safeguarding public health.
The exercise was conducted in compliance with the Public Health Act 2012, Act 851.
