The Food and Drugs Authority (FDA) has cautioned the public against the use of cement or any unapproved substances in preserving beans, following a viral video on social media suggesting the practice.
In a press release, the Authority stated that the footage, which appears to show beans being treated with a white powdery substance believed to be concrete cement, does not represent approved agricultural or food preservation methods in Ghana.
According to the FDA, the method shown is neither recognised nor endorsed by the Plant Protection and Regulation Services Directorate (PPRSD) of the Ministry of Food and Agriculture.
The Authority further noted that a review of the video suggests the language spoken is not Ghanaian.
A translation of the narration reportedly reveals unsafe and unhygienic handling practices, including the application of chemicals with bare hands and the absence of protective clothing.
The footage also shows an individual standing directly on a heap of beans without protective gear.
The FDA stressed that the use of cement for food preservation is strictly prohibited under Ghana’s food safety regulations.
“The FDA, together with its stakeholder institutions, does not approve of food preservation practices that compromise food safety and public health,” the statement emphasised.
The Authority condemned the use of unapproved substances, poor hygiene standards, and direct hand contact with food without protective wear, describing such actions as violations of established food safety requirements.
It assured the public that these practices are not condoned in Ghana and advised farm produce aggregators and retailers to refrain from engaging in or promoting unsafe preservation methods.
Consumers were also encouraged to report any suspicious food handling or preservation activities to the FDA for investigation and possible sanctions.
