FDB closes down Odasani Beverages Company

Accra, July 26, GNA - The Food and Drugs Board (FDB) on Monday closed down B. J. Farms and Processing Company Limited, manufactures of alcoholic beverages located at Teshie Camp "2", for operating illegally under unhygienic conditions.

The FDB consequently declared as unfit for human consumption the Company's Odasani products - Odasani Ginger Wine, Odasani Schnapps, Odasani Waist and Power and Odasani Brandy.

The FDB found that the Company engages in manual filling and labelling of bottles with workers, who have not undergone medical examination.

Besides operating in an untidy wooden structure, raw materials for the manufacture of the beverages, such as ginger and other plants, were kept outside.

Mrs Faustina Atupra, Regulatory Officer of the FDB, who led a team of Journalists to the site, said the Company, apart from failing to acquire a certification from the FDB, was producing in an environment, which was injurious to public health.

She asked the public to stop consuming the beverages, which are mainly sold in Greater Accra and Central Regions.

Speaking to the press, Mr Jonathan Baidoo, a Supervisor, admitted that the Company was producing in unhygienic surroundings. However, he said, the site was temporary.

He said the Company belongs to Mr Appiah Boamah, who is his uncle, and, therefore, could not provide any information on whether he had a certificate to operate.

Mr Baidoo was brought to the FDB for further questioning and to help in investigations. 26 July 04