The Food and Drugs Authority (FDA) has issued a critical warning against the widespread and indiscriminate application of chemicals to accelerate the ripening of plantain, a significant agricultural commodity in Ghana. This precautionary measure follows a video circulating on social media alleging the use of a chemical substance – Ethemax – to expedite the ripening process within the Madina Market in Accra. The FDA, in conjunction with the Environmental Health Unit of the La Nkwantanang-Madina Municipal Assembly, initiated a thorough investigation following the video’s dissemination. The investigation’s scope encompassed scrutiny of the market, interviews with individuals involved, and a detailed examination of the identified product.
The FDA has established unequivocally that the substance being utilized by one trader is Ethemax, a chemical registered as a plant growth regulator, specifically designated as a ‘Harmful’ hazard warning. Ethemax, according to the FDA, is formulated with Ethephon 480 g/L SL as its active ingredient, a compound known for its rapid ripening effects. The FDA’s investigation has revealed a pattern of traders deliberately applying this Ethemax to plantain crops, ostensibly to accelerate the ripening process. The identified trader is now being formally investigated and faces regulatory action.
The FDA’s official statement emphasizes that the use of Ethemax is strictly governed by approved conditions of use and label instructions. They explicitly warn against employing this chemical without proper authorization and adhering to established protocols. The FDA has stated that inappropriate application, including exceeding recommended concentrations or utilizing the chemical on commodities not authorized, could inevitably compromise food safety and pose unacceptable risks to public health. The agency underscored that the use of Ethemax, in its current form, is a significant concern.
Consumers are urged to prioritize the purchasing of fruits and vegetables from trusted sources and to diligently wash fresh produce thoroughly with potable water before consumption. The FDA is committed to enhancing food safety through continued monitoring and targeted education. The agency is actively encouraging individuals to report any suspected unsafe handling, processing, storage, or inappropriate chemical use to the FDA for immediate investigation and assessment. A dedicated team is being assembled to analyze the situation and implement further measures to ensure compliance with established food safety standards. The FDA’s intent is to prevent any potential harm to consumers and maintain the integrity of the plantain supply chain. The investigation is ongoing, and the FDA plans to conduct further analyses to assess the full extent of the potential risks associated with this practice.
Furthermore, the FDA has issued a reminder to agricultural chemical suppliers and distributors to strictly adhere to established guidelines and protocols, emphasizing the importance of minimizing risk through careful and responsible application of any chemical substances.
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Source: Adom Online
