FDA report uncovers dangerous heavy metals in popular foods, cosmetics

A National Summary Report by the Food and Drugs Authority (FDA) has revealed alarming levels of heavy metal contamination in everyday food and cosmetic products sold across Ghana.

The nationwide surveillance, supported by UNICEF, tested turmeric, cereal mixes (“tom brown”), bentonite clay (“Ayilor”), kohl (“Kaji Kaji”), and several skin-lightening creams and lotions for traces of Lead (Pb), Cadmium (Cd), and Mercury (Hg).

Key Findings

Kohl (“Kaji Kaji”): 77.79% lead contamination rate; Upper East & Eastern Regions hit 100%.

Turmeric: 42.09% contaminated with lead; highest in Greater Accra & Central Regions.

Cereal mixes (“Tom Brown”): 29% contaminated with cadmium, worst in Northeast, Western North & Oti.

Bentonite clay (“Ayilor”): 24.62% lead contamination, especially in Northeast & Greater Accra.

Skin-lightening creams: encouragingly, some achieved 100% mercury compliance in certain regions.

Unbranded items sold in open markets and retail shops were identified as the major sources of the contamination, raising urgent public health concerns.

FDA’s Response

Deputy Chief Executive for Food Division, Roderick Kwabena Dadie Agyei, announced that:

New guidelines and stricter port surveillance will be rolled out.

Contaminated turmeric brands are being recalled nationwide.

Traceability systems will be enforced to stop supplies from galamsey-affected areas.

UNICEF Health Specialist Rev. Dr. Emmanuel Kyerematen Amoah stressed that even minimal lead exposure can damage children’s organs, reduce IQ, impair learning, and trigger kidney and heart diseases.