FDA warns against use of fake spices

The Food and Drugs Authority (FDA), has warned food vendors to avoid using fake spices to prepare food since the products are a threat to human health.

Ms Sharon Annison, FDA Regulatory Officer, who gave the warning at a three-day workshop on food safety at Nungua in Accra, organised by Ghana Traditional Caterers Association (GTCA), said the use of fake spices brings about diseases like heart attacks and strokes.

She said chemicals like potassium nitrate, commonly called salt petre (Kawu),” which is widely used in preparing beans and okro soup could lead to blindness and strokes.

Ms Annison said kawu is used for producing soap, explosives and fertiliser.

She said monosodium glutamate is also engaged for cleaning cooking utensils such as sink, buckets, water closets and other silver items.

The Regulatory Officer said it is obligatory for everyone, including food handlers to ensure the compliance of food safety practices.

Mr Ken Peprah Dwemoh Mensah of the GTCA called for an effective food management standard, being advocated by the association to ensure that food vendors sell safe meals to the public.

“It is the responsibility of everyone to ensure that food meant for consumption is not contaminated,” he said.

Mr Samuel Agyei Boahen, Ledzokuku-Krowor Municipal Health Officer said the assembly had adopted a standard on food safety management from the market to the home to ensure public health and safety.

This, he said is being regulated by health certificates.