The Food and Drugs Authority (FDA) has addressed allegations concerning the re-bagging and distribution of allegedly expired Moshosho rice to Senior High Schools. The FDA clarified that it approved an extension of the rice's "best before" date after thorough assessments and adherence to internationally recognized storage standards.

This clarification follows claims by North Tongu MP Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, who accused Lamens Investments Africa Limited and the National Food Buffer Stock Company (NAFCO) of repackaging 22,000 tons of expired and contaminated rice imported from India. He alleged the rice was falsely labeled as "made in Ghana" with the original expiry date of December 2023 removed.

Speaking at a press conference on Tuesday, November 26, FDA CEO Dr. Delese Mimi Darko disclosed that Lamens Investments had applied for a shelf-life extension on November 4, 2023. The request was denied on December 15, 2023, as it lacked approval from the manufacturer.

Dr. Darko explained:  
“The request was not granted because it originated from the importer, Lamens, rather than the manufacturer. The certificates provided indicated an expiry date of December 2025, so the FDA declined the request.”

Advertisement

Subsequently, the FDA fined Lamens Investments 100,000 cedis for breaching the Public Health Act after repackaging activities were uncovered at a NAFCO warehouse in Kumasi on December 20, 2023.

The preliminary investigation revealed that the rice carried a "best before" date of 2023, rather than an expiry date, as claimed by Lamens. On December 21, 2023, the rice manufacturer, Satyam Balaji Rice Industry Pvt. Ltd., requested a one-year extension of the "best before" date to December 2024, stating the rice could remain safe for consumption for up to three years if stored properly in dry conditions and fumigated regularly.

Based on this, the FDA conducted rigorous testing and granted a provisional extension of the "best before" date to April 30, 2024. Dr. Darko emphasized that while food products may lose flavor or texture over time, they remain safe if stored correctly. She added that the FDA's decision aligns with international practices, where regulatory extensions can be granted following stringent assessments.

The FDA reaffirmed its commitment to public health and welcomed independent forensic audits by local or international bodies to ensure transparency.