FDA seizes unregistered cigarette-shaped candy in Accra
FDA and National Security seize unregistered cigarette-shaped candy in Accra, warning of potential health risks and its influence on children.
The Food and Drugs Authority (FDA), in collaboration with National Security, has seized quantities of an unregistered cigar-shaped candy known as cigarette rod lollipop from the Central Business District of Accra.
The seizure followed a crackdown on the sale of the product over the weekend, during which the key suspect linked to its sale was arrested and placed in police custody.
According to the FDA, investigations are ongoing into the importation, distribution and sale of the product.
The Authority said the cigarette rod lollipop is not registered with the FDA, meaning its composition is unknown and could pose a serious public health risk to consumers.
The FDA also expressed concern about the product’s cigarette-like appearance, particularly its potential influence on children.
The Authority warned that children holding and using the candy could become accustomed to cigarette-like products and potentially develop an interest in smoking, undermining ongoing national efforts to discourage tobacco use.
The FDA has therefore advised the public not to purchase or use the cigarette rod lollipop under any circumstances.
It further reminded the public that under Section 97(1) of the Public Health Act, 2012 (Act 851), it is an offence to manufacture, import, export, distribute, sell, supply or expose food for sale unless the food has been registered by the FDA.
The Authority said the cigarette rod lollipop falls within the category of food products covered by the law.
The FDA is urging anyone who finds the product on sale, or comes across other suspected unregistered products, to report them to the Authority on 055 111 2224 or 055 111 2225, or via fda@fda.gov.gh.
Persons who currently have the product in stock have also been advised to contact the FDA or submit the products to the nearest FDA office.
The Authority is further appealing for credible information that could lead to the arrest of importers or other persons involved in the importation and distribution of the cigarette rod lollipop.
The FDA assured informants that information provided would be treated with strict confidentiality and said credible information leading to arrests would be rewarded.
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