Officials from the Food and Drugs Authority (FDA), working with National Security, have seized quantities of an unregistered cigarette-shaped candy sold in Accra’s Central Business District (CBD).
The product, branded as Cigarette Rod Lollipop, was removed from the market during a weekend crackdown.
A key suspect linked to the sale has been arrested and is in police custody while investigations continue into the importation, distribution, and sale of the item, the FDA reported.
The Authority cautioned that the candy is not registered with the FDA, meaning its composition is unknown and could pose a public health risk to consumers.
It also warned that the cigarette-shaped design could encourage children who use it to develop an interest in smoking, potentially undermining efforts to discourage smoking, particularly among young people.
The FDA has advised the public not to purchase or use the product under any circumstances.
It 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, or supply food unless it has been registered by the Authority.
The Cigarette Rod Lollipop falls under the category of food products.
The Authority has urged anyone with information about individuals selling the product or other suspected unregistered products to report them.
It also appealed to persons who have the product in stock to immediately contact the FDA or submit it to the nearest FDA office.
Information leading to the arrest of the importer or other persons behind the importation and distribution of the product will be treated confidentially and rewarded, the FDA added.
Source: ghanamma.com