Bolgatanga: The Food and Drugs Authority (FDA) in the Upper East Region has assured residents that the sachet water available in the region is safe for consumption. The assurance comes amidst skepticism among residents regarding the quality of sachet water in circulation.
According to Ghana News Agency, Mr. Abel Ndego, the Acting Regional Head of the FDA, allayed public fears during a sensitization program for sachet water producers across the region. He stated that approximately 98 to 99 percent of sachet water producers meet at least the basic minimum requirement for production. Mr. Ndego emphasized that the FDA is committed to ensuring compliance with safety standards.
Mr. Ndego highlighted the significance of sachet water production to the health system of the region and encouraged producers to maintain proper sanitation at their facilities. He remarked that producing under sanitary conditions helps protect and preserve the integrity and quality of the products distributed to the public.
Despite addressing safety concerns, the FDA observed issues related to the accurate labeling of sachet water quantities. Mr. Ndego noted that some producers misrepresent the volume of water supplied, which could lead to consumer deception. He stressed the importance of accurate volume labeling, particularly for medical purposes, as incorrect volumes could affect medication dosages.
Mr. Ndego called on producers to ensure their machines are calibrated to deliver the exact volume of water indicated on the sachet. This measure is crucial to avoid discrepancies that could impact the strength of medications reconstituted using sachet water.
Mr. Anthony Baba Piameng, the Regional Chairman of the Sachet Water Producers Association, expressed appreciation for the sensitization program and urged the FDA to conduct more regular programs to reinforce the importance of hygienic production practices.