Expired rice scandal: We won’t jeopardize people’s health or safety for any reason – FDA

The Food and Drugs Authority (FDA) has addressed concerns over allegations by North Tongu MP, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, that 22,000 bags of expired rice were distributed to Senior High Schools through the Free SHS Secretariat.

The FDA revealed it intervened after police flagged unlicensed repackaging by Lamens Investments Africa.

Tests by the FDA, CSIR, and an Indian lab confirmed the rice was safe for consumption, leading to an extension of its “best before” date to April 2024.

Joseph Yaw-Bernie Bennie, FDA’s Legal Affairs Director, assured the public that the agency prioritizes safety, citing swift action in similar cases.

He emphasized the FDA’s commitment to protecting students and enforcing food safety laws across the country.