Do you clean dishes with washing powders? FDA warns of serious health risks

Officials of the Food and Drugs Authority (FDA) have cautioned Ghanaians against using washing powder to clean kitchen utensils, warning that the practice could expose consumers to serious health risks.

The officials explained that washing powders are formulated specifically for laundry and are not intended for cleaning plates, cooking utensils and other items that come into contact with food.

Speaking in an interview on Ahenfie TV on September 29, 2026, the officials urged the public to use food-grade soaps specifically manufactured for washing dishes.

“The washing powders are meant for laundry and not for washing dishes. People should use soaps that are specifically made for washing utensils,” he said.

FAO/FDA sensitizes food vendors on proper food handling

They advised consumers to opt for liquid dishwashing soaps and other products clearly labelled for use on kitchen utensils.

The FDA officials further cautioned that the concern was not limited to washing powders, noting that some solid soaps may also contain substances that make them unsuitable for washing plates and other kitchen utensils.

They urged the public to pay attention to the intended use of cleaning products and avoid using laundry detergents or inappropriate soaps on items used for food preparation and consumption.

The caution forms part of efforts to promote safe food-handling practices and reduce potential exposure to harmful substances through improperly cleaned kitchen utensils.

Watch the video below

Officials from the Food and Drugs Authority have cautioned the public against using washing powder to wash kitchen utensils, warning that the practice could pose serious health risks and potentially cause long-term health problems.

[🎥: Ahenfie TV] pic.twitter.com/d9JeEkIL2G

— SIKAOFFICIAL🦍 (@SIKAOFFICIAL1) September 29, 2026