FDA Fines 148 Companies GHS 3.7 Million
The Food and Drugs Authority (FDA) has taken decisive action against 148 manufacturing companies across Ghana for advertising unapproved products, highlighting the agency’s rigorous approach to safeguarding public health.
The companies, which include producers of cosmetics, herbal medicines, and media outlets, have been fined a minimum of GH¢25,000 each totaling some GHS 3.7 million with additional penalties imposed on repeat offenders.
This crackdown forms part of the FDA’s broader strategy to ensure compliance with regulations designed to protect consumers from potentially harmful products.
Matthew Nkum, Head of Investigations at the FDA, disclosed that some of the sanctioned companies have already begun paying their fines, while others are being pursued by the FDA’s legal team.
In a statement, Mr. Nkum emphasized the serious nature of the violations, noting that unapproved advertisements pose significant risks to public health by potentially misleading consumers about the safety and efficacy of products.
He further clarified that product registration with the FDA does not automatically grant the right to advertise, as companies must first submit their advertising materials for FDA review and approval.
“The process for advertising approval is straightforward, involving the submission of a script or application to the FDA, which is reviewed by a committee. This typically takes a few days and requires a fee of GH¢600,” Mr. Nkum explained.
He underscored that this step is crucial to ensuring that all advertised products meet the required safety standards before they are promoted to the public.
In addition to the 148 companies sanctioned, another 48 entities, including three individuals, have been cautioned for similar offenses.
The FDA’s actions are part of a broader effort to enhance public awareness about the importance of adhering to regulatory standards. Mr. Nkum noted that the FDA has intensified its public sensitization campaigns, urging companies to ensure their products are approved before advertising and reminding media houses to obtain approval letters from the FDA before airing any advertisements.
The FDA’s crackdown comes at a time when the agency is under increasing pressure to uphold high standards in the face of growing market complexity. Mr. Nkum assured the public of the FDA’s unwavering commitment to ensuring the safety of products on the market, calling for greater collaboration between the FDA, manufacturers, and the media.
He also urged consumers to remain vigilant and only use products that have been properly vetted and approved by the FDA.
This latest enforcement action by the FDA underscores the agency’s determination to maintain public trust in Ghana’s regulatory framework and ensure that consumers are protected from the dangers of unapproved and potentially unsafe products.
