FDA Warns Public Against Consuming Food Recovered from Floodwaters
Authority cautions against sale and distribution of flood-contaminated food amid Greater Accra floods
- FDA warns against consuming food retrieved from floodwaters in Greater Accra.
- Floodwater contamination poses risks of cholera, typhoid, and dysentery
- Public urged to discard affected food and use safe or boiled water
The Food and Drugs Authority (FDA) has issued a strong warning to the public to avoid consuming, selling, or distributing any food or regulated products retrieved from floodwaters following recent flooding in parts of the Greater Accra Region.
In a food safety alert, the Authority noted that some individuals have been seen collecting food items from flood-affected areas after the June 29 floods, with reports that some intend to redistribute them to unsuspecting members of the public, including students.
The FDA stressed that such products pose a serious public health risk, as their safety and quality cannot be guaranteed due to possible contamination and improper handling.
“The FDA cannot vouch for the safety or quality of these products, as they may have been contaminated by floodwaters and mishandling, which could pose a serious risk to public health,” the statement said.
It therefore urged the public to reject any food or regulated product recovered from floodwaters and warned against selling or consuming such items in any form.
The Authority explained that floodwaters often contain sewage, chemicals, waste, and disease-causing microorganisms that can easily contaminate food, drinking water, and food preparation surfaces.
According to the FDA, this significantly increases the risk of foodborne illnesses such as cholera, typhoid fever, and dysentery.
It further advised the public to discard any food that has come into contact with floodwater and to ensure the use of safe drinking water. Where water quality is uncertain, it recommended boiling for at least five minutes before use.
Additional safety measures include regular handwashing with soap and clean water, thorough cleaning and disinfection of kitchen surfaces and utensils exposed to floodwater, and strict separation of raw and cooked foods to prevent contamination.
The FDA also urged the public to remain vigilant when purchasing food items and to report any suspected sale or distribution of flood-damaged products to the nearest FDA office or through its official communication channels.
The Authority said it is collaborating with relevant agencies to monitor the situation and take appropriate regulatory action to safeguard public health.
