7 women arrested in possession of palm oil adulterated with 'Sudan dye'

Seven female traders have been arrested by the Koforidua Central Police Command for possessing and selling palm oil adulterated with Sudan dye.

According to a report by UTV on April 16, 2026, the Food and Drugs Authority (FDA) conducted market surveillance in Koforidua in 2025, during which samples of palm oil were collected for laboratory testing.

The results confirmed the presence of Sudan dye in some of the products on sale.

Following the findings, the FDA initiated action against traders involved in the sale of the contaminated oil and referred the matter to the Koforidua Central Police to support further investigations.

The goal was to identify suppliers behind the distribution of the adulterated palm oil.

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On April 16, 2026, police arrested seven women believed to be suppliers of the tainted product.

The suspects are said to be producers from Akyem Maase in the Eastern Region, who supply palm oil to market women in Koforidua.

The FDA has repeatedly warned against the use of Sudan dye in food products.

The substance is an industrial chemical commonly used in manufacturing textiles, leather, plastics, paper, hair products, mineral oils, waxes, and cosmetics to add colour.

However, the dye is mostly used by palm oil traders to enhance the colour of the crude palm oil.

Health authorities stress that Sudan dye is not safe for human consumption and must not be used as a food additive.

It has been linked to serious health risks, including cancer, due to its carcinogenic and mutagenic properties.

Consumption of contaminated palm oil can also lead to other health problems such as migraines, severe allergic reactions, hives, and hyperactivity in children.

Investigations are ongoing as authorities work to clamp down on the production and distribution of adulterated palm oil in the region.

Seven women arrested in possession of palm oil adulterated with Sudan dye#UTVGhana pic.twitter.com/5zqWZV0DEB

— UTV Ghana (@utvghana) April 16, 2026

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