The Food and Drugs Authority (FDA) has seized quantities of smoked and salted (dried) fish found to have been processed under unsanitary conditions after a viral video sparked public concern over food safety.

In a statement issued on Tuesday, July 28, the Authority said it responded promptly by dispatching a rapid response team to the site on Monday, July 27. The operation was carried out in collaboration with the Tema Metropolitan Assembly and the Ghana Police Service.

The FDA said the inspection resulted in the immediate confiscation of fish that had been exposed to unhygienic conditions. Officials also educated the processors involved on the health risks associated with poor food handling and the importance of observing proper hygiene standards.

According to the Authority, similar cases have been recorded from time to time, and it has consistently partnered with other state agencies to address them through public education, inspections and enforcement measures.

To prevent future occurrences, the FDA said it will step up engagement with fish processors and fishmongers in the affected coastal communities to encourage compliance with food safety regulations and improve hygiene practices.

The Authority also advised consumers to buy smoked and dried fish only from clean and reputable vendors. It urged the public to carefully examine fish before purchase and avoid products with foul smells, unusual discolouration, visible dirt or any signs of spoilage.

In addition, the FDA encouraged consumers to wash smoked and dried fish thoroughly before cooking and ensure they are properly prepared before consumption.

The Authority called on members of the public to report any suspected cases of unhygienic food processing, storage or sale to the nearest FDA office or their local assembly.

The FDA reaffirmed its commitment to working with partner institutions to remove unsafe fish and fish products from the market while strengthening education, monitoring and enforcement efforts to protect public health.