Seek approval before media adverts-FDA to Food service establishments

The FDA stated that any food service provider advertising without this approval is in breach of both the FDA’s Advertising Guidelines for Regulated Products and Section 100 (2) of the Public Health Act 2012, Act 851.

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The Food and Drugs Authority (FDA) has directed that all food service businesses must seek its approval for any advertisements they intend to run across media channels by December 1, 2024.

The FDA stated that any food service provider advertising without this approval is in breach of both the FDA’s Advertising Guidelines for Regulated Products and Section 100 (2) of the Public Health Act 2012, Act 851.

The FDA’s Chief Executive Officer, Madam Delese Mimi Darko, highlighted in a statement shared with the Ghana News Agency that the law stipulates “no person shall advertise food products without the Authority’s prior approval.”

Additionally, the statement clarified that penalties for violating these advertising regulations, as stated in Section 129 of Act 851, can include a fine between 7,500 to 15,000 penalty units, imprisonment ranging from 15 to 25 years, or both.

The FDA warned that it would enforce these laws rigorously to uphold public health standards.

In its announcement, the FDA defined “Food Service Establishment” as businesses engaged in the storage, preparation, packaging, serving, selling, or provision of food for consumption, encompassing restaurants, bakeries, canteens, online food vendors, institutional caterers, and fast-food outlets.

The FDA further outlined that approved advertisements must align with their guidelines across media platforms like billboards and social media, and are valid for one year before requiring renewal.

Media professionals promoting FDA-regulated products are advised to adhere to approved scripts from the Authority.

The FDA also urged the public to report any issues related to the recalled Benylin Paediatric Syrup at any of its offices nationwide and expressed gratitude for public collaboration in supporting health and safety standards.