FDA justifies extension of expired rice for SHSs, says it’s safe and wholesome

The Food and Drugs Authority (FDA) has justified its decision to extend the best-before date of 22,000 bags of rice distributed to Senior High Schools (SHSs) in February, assuring the public that the product was thoroughly tested and deemed safe for consumption.

The clarification comes in response to allegations from Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, the Member of Parliament for North Tongu, who claimed the rice was unfit for consumption. He accused the National Food Buffer Stock Company (NAFCO) and Lamens Investments Africa Limited of distributing expired rice, originally labeled with a December 2023 best-before date.

Mr. Ablakwa further alleged that the rice was repackaged in locally produced sacks marked “ECOWAS” and “Made in Ghana Rice” without a clear expiry date.

Responding to these claims in an interview with Joy FM on Thursday, November 21, Joseph Yaw-Bernie Bennie, the FDA’s Director of Legal and Corporate Affairs, explained that Lamens Investments Africa had indeed been fined GH¢100,000 for initially repackaging rice without authorization.

However, subsequent tests conducted by the FDA, the Centre for Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR), and an accredited laboratory in India confirmed that the rice met all quality standards.

“In light of these confirmatory results, the FDA extended the product’s best-before date to April 2024 to ensure safe consumption during that period,” Mr. Bennie stated.

He clarified that Lamens Investments Africa complied with FDA protocols to secure the extension, which was granted after rigorous assessment. He also revealed that the company initially sought an extension to December 2024, but the FDA limited it to April 2024, pending additional evidence from the manufacturer.

“The product was confirmed wholesome by three independent laboratories. This extension ensures safety, but any further extensions would require additional manufacturer verification,” Mr. Bennie emphasized.

The FDA reassured the public that its decision was rooted in scientific findings and compliance with regulatory procedures to safeguard consumer health.