The Food and Drugs Authority (FDA) has cautioned the public against the indiscriminate use of chemicals to accelerate the ripening of plantains and other fruits and vegetables.
The caution follows a viral video purportedly showing the use of chemicals to ripen plantains at the Madina Market.
According to the FDA, preliminary findings from investigations conducted in collaboration with the Environmental Health Unit of the La Nkwantanang-Madina Municipal Assembly established that the product reportedly used in the video was Ethemax, a plant growth regulator considered harmful to human health and public safety.
The Authority said it had also engaged the trader involved in the sale and distribution of the ripened plantains at the market.
In a press statement issued and signed by its Chief Executive Officer (CEO) and copied to The Ghanaian Times yesterday, the FDA said it was taking appropriate regulatory action against those involved in the unauthorised sale, distribution and use of the chemical, based on the preliminary findings of the investigation.
The Authority explained that inappropriate use of chemicals included applying incorrect concentrations or using chemicals on commodities for which the products were not authorised, practices which could pose food safety risks.
It advised the public to use agricultural chemicals strictly in accordance with approved conditions of use and label instructions.
“We caution against the indiscriminate use of chemicals or other substances to accelerate plantain ripening, as any other inappropriate use may result in unacceptable chemical residues and potentially compromise food safety,” the Authority emphasised.
Consumers were also encouraged to obtain fruits and vegetables from trusted sources and wash them thoroughly with potable water before consumption.
The FDA said it would continue its food safety education and market surveillance activities to promote the safe handling and marketing of fruits and vegetables.
It also urged the public to report suspected unsafe food handling, processing, storage and the inappropriate use of chemicals to the Authority for prompt investigation.
BY TIMES REPORTER
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