A National Summary Report by the Food and Drugs Authority (FDA) has revealed disturbing levels of heavy metal contamination in some food and cosmetic products sold on the Ghanaian market.
The nationwide assessment, carried out across all 16 regions with support from UNICEF, tested for Lead (Pb), Cadmium (Cd), and Mercury (Hg) in products including turmeric, cereal mixes (Tom Brown), bentonite clay (“Ayilor”), kohl (“Kaji Kaji”), and certain skin-lightening creams and lotions.
Key Findings
- Kohl (Kaji Kaji): The most contaminated product, with 77.79% of samples testing positive for lead. The Upper East and Eastern regions recorded 100% contamination.
- Turmeric: Showed 42.09% lead contamination, with Greater Accra and Central Region topping the list.
- Cereal Mixes (Tom Brown): Found to contain 29% cadmium contamination, particularly in the Northeast, Western North, and Oti regions.
- Bentonite Clay (Ayilor): Recorded 24.62% lead contamination, mainly in the Northeast and Greater Accra regions.
- Skin-lightening creams/lotions: Some brands achieved full compliance, with no mercury contamination detected.
The report highlighted that unbranded products, especially those sold in open markets and retail shops, were the major sources of contamination.
FDA and UNICEF Responses
Deputy Chief Executive of the FDA’s Food Division, Roderick Kwabena Dadie Agyei, said the authority is tightening regulatory oversight, particularly on kohl products, while enhancing port surveillance and safety checks. He revealed that nationwide recalls have been initiated for contaminated turmeric and stricter inspections placed on imports.
“The FDA believes issues of traceability must be taken seriously. We must know if these foodstuffs are coming from galamsey areas so that we can stop the supply. The heavy metals are causing birth defects and serious health challenges. We need to stop galamsey and change our agricultural practices,” he stressed.
Health Specialist at UNICEF Ghana, Rev. Dr. Emmanuel Kyerematen Amoah, warned that even the smallest amount of lead could damage children’s developing organs, reduce IQ, and cause kidney and heart-related diseases.
“This report is not the end; it is a call to decisive action. We owe it to our children, our families, and the generations yet unborn to make this country safe from the devastating effects of lead,” he urged, calling for stricter standards for consumer products.
The FDA says it remains committed to strengthening public health protections, eliminating contaminated products from circulation, and working with stakeholders to ensure safer food and cosmetics for Ghanaians.
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