FDA Warns Against Consumption of Food Salvaged in Flood Aftermath

The Food and Drugs Authority has cautioned the public against accepting, selling, or distributing food and other regulated products retrieved from floodwaters following the heavy flooding in Accra and other affected areas on June 29, 2026.

In a statement, the FDA said it has observed unidentified individuals retrieving various items, including food products, from floodwaters and other sites.

Some of these individuals have also appeared on social media claiming they intend to distribute such items to unsuspecting members of the public, including students.

The Authority said it cannot vouch for the safety or quality of these products because they may have been contaminated by floodwater and improper handling, which could pose a serious risk to public health.

The FDA explained that floodwaters often carry sewage, chemicals, other waste, and harmful microorganisms that can contaminate food, drinking water, food preparation surfaces, and storage facilities.

It noted that the floods have therefore increased the risk of food and water contamination, creating conditions that can lead to foodborne illnesses and outbreaks of cholera, typhoid fever, dysentery and other diseases.

The Authority is urging the public to discard any food that has come into contact with floodwater, to drink only safe water and to boil it for at least five minutes if its safety is uncertain.

It also advised thorough handwashing with soap and safe water before preparing food, before eating, and after handling flood-contaminated materials, as well as cleaning and disinfecting surfaces, utensils, refrigerators, and storage areas that may have been exposed.

The FDA further recommended keeping raw and cooked foods separate to prevent cross-contamination and warned the public to be cautious when purchasing food products and to report any suspected sale or distribution of flood-damaged or unsafe items.

The FDA said it is working closely with relevant agencies to monitor the safety of food supplies in affected communities and will take the necessary regulatory actions to protect public health.

Members of the public can report any irregularities to the nearest FDA office, through all its social media handles, or by calling 0551112224 or 0551112225.

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