FDA orders alcoholic energy drinks off shelves by end of March

The Food and Drugs Authority (FDA) has ordered importers, manufacturers and distributors of alcoholic energy drinks to withdraw the products from the market by the end of March 2026.

The regulator said the move follows a review which flagged what it described as significant public health risks associated with drinks that combine alcohol with stimulants.

In a public notice dated 25 February, the FDA said it examined “mixed drinks” containing alcohol and ingredients such as caffeine, inositol, glucuronolactone, ginseng and guarana.

The Authority said the assessment was carried out under provisions of Ghana’s Public Health Act, 2012 (Act 851), which empowers it to enforce standards aimed at protecting consumers.

According to the FDA, an expanding body of scientific evidence suggests that mixing alcohol with stimulants can increase the likelihood of serious health harm and risky behaviour, particularly among younger consumers and those unaware of the effects.

The FDA said its conclusions were reviewed and validated by its Food Expert Committee, including a technical advisory group focused on food safety and nutrition.

Companies have been given until the end of March to remove affected products voluntarily, with the FDA saying this window allows clearance “without sanctions”.

But the Authority warned that any alcoholic energy drinks still being sold after the deadline would face enforcement action, including formal withdrawal from the market.

Manufacturers have also been told to reformulate products to meet approved standards, separating alcoholic beverages and energy drinks into different product categories.

The FDA said it would continue monitoring the market and urged the public to report non-compliant products to support enforcement.