The Food and Drugs Authority (FDA) has issued a strong warning to media organisations across Ghana, urging them to stop advertising food and drug products that have not received official approval.
Ashanti Regional Principal Regulatory Officer of the FDA, Prince Ohene Gyan, reminded media houses of their legal responsibility to verify the approval status of products before promoting them.
Sanctions for Violations
Mr. Ohene Gyan noted that both the manufacturers of unapproved products and the media outlets that advertise them could each face a minimum fine of GHC25,000.
“It is illegal to advertise any food or drug product in Ghana without prior approval from the FDA,” he stated. “The law is clear — and it is meant to protect public health and ensure consumers are not misled by false or unverified claims.”
Verification Process for Advertisers
To avoid penalties, the FDA advises all media outlets to demand FDA approval documentation and complete product details before airing or publishing any food or drug advertisements.
“Media houses must make it a standard procedure to request approval letters from advertisers as part of their internal checks,” Mr. Ohene Gyan emphasized.
Tackling Unsafe Products
He added that the spread of unsafe, fake, or harmful products is often driven by irresponsible advertising, and dishonest individuals continue to exploit the public by promoting unapproved remedies.
“The FDA will not tolerate such practices. We are determined to clamp down on violators and protect public safety,” he warned.
Call for Collaboration
Mr. Ohene Gyan concluded by calling on media institutions to support the FDA’s efforts to ensure only safe and certified products are promoted to the public.
“We remain open to working with the media to safeguard the health of Ghanaians. Together, we can keep the public informed and protected,” he said.
