The Food and Drugs Authority (FDA), in collaboration with the National Security, has seized quantities of an unregistered cigarette-shaped candy being sold in Accra’s Central Business District.
The product, branded as Cigarette Rod Lollipop, was confiscated during a crackdown conducted over the weekend as part of efforts to stop its sale and distribution.
According to the FDA, the key suspect linked to the sale of the product has been arrested and placed in police custody pending investigations into its importation, distribution and sale.
The Authority said the Cigarette Rod Lollipop has not been registered with the FDA, meaning its composition has not been verified.
It consequently warned that the product could pose public health risks to consumers, particularly children who may be attracted to its cigarette-like appearance.
The FDA further expressed concern that the use of cigarette-shaped candy by children could potentially normalise or encourage behaviours associated with smoking, undermining efforts to discourage tobacco use.
The Authority has therefore advised the public not to purchase or consume the product under any circumstances.
The FDA said the sale of the product also contravenes Ghana’s public health laws. 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, or expose food for sale, unless the food has been registered by the Authority.
The FDA noted that the Cigarette Rod Lollipop falls within the category of food products subject to registration.
The Authority has urged individuals who have information on persons selling the product or other suspected unregistered products to report them through its official channels.
It also called on persons who may have the product in stock to contact the FDA or submit the products to the nearest FDA office.
The Authority said information leading to the arrest of importers or other persons involved in the importation and distribution of the product would be treated confidentially and could attract a reward.
