By Deborah Pofara Luu
A recent study by researchers at the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST) has uncovered alarming levels of banned substances in some tomato paste brands sold in Ghana.
The study, led by Dr. Abena Boakye, found traces of erythrosine, commonly known as Red Dye No. 3, and starch in several samples.
Erythrosine is prohibited in tomato paste due to potential health risks, while starch is also not permitted in these products.
The research examined eight brands of tomato concentrate that met standard labelling requirements. Despite appearing normal in colour and texture, some samples fell short of the required 24% natural tomato content.
Notably, erythrosine was detected in two samples without being listed on the labels. Starch content ranged from 1g/100g to as high as 24g/100g in some samples.
Dr. Boakye emphasised the need for stricter regulations.
“The Ghana FDA should not only focus on removing erythrosine from tomato products but also extend its regulations to include manufacturers of confectionery, candies, drinks, and other food products containing this harmful dye.”
She added that these findings should inform policymakers on ensuring food safety for consumers.
The study calls for enhanced monitoring and enforcement by regulatory bodies to protect Ghanaian consumers from harmful additives.
As Dr. Boakye noted, “These findings should fuel further research and guide stakeholders in implementing safer food production practices.”
The U.S. FDA has also banned erythrosine in food products due to health concerns, giving manufacturers two years to remove it from shelves entirely.
