FDB cautions the public against the sale of expired corned beefs

01-11-2011       

Information obtained by the Food and Drugs Board (FDB) has it that a large consignment of expired corned beef with the brand names “Grace Corned Beef” and Libby’s Corned Beef’ has been found in a warehouse in Neigbouring Togo. The information further indicates that the expired corned beef brands believed to have been stored under deplorable conditions since 2008, show signs of bloating, rust and leakage cans, which could cause severe health implication if consumed. In a release signed by the Chief Executive of the FDB, Dr Stephen K. Opuni and copied to the GBC in Bolgatanga, confirmed that the expired corned beef products have been spotted in some market around the port in Lome (Togo) and could filter through Ghana. The release is therefore cautioning the general public against the patronage of the expired corned beef products for the purpose of sale in Ghana since such acts contravenes Section 1 (1) (b) and 8 (1) (b) of the Food and Drugs Law, 1992 (PNDCL 305B), which stipulates that “Any person who sells or offers for sale any food that is unwholesome or unfit for human consumption” commits an offence. The law in that same section goes on to state that “any person who deposits with or consign to any person for the purpose of sale, any food intended for, but unfit for human consumption” commits an offence. According to the release, consumption of expired canned beef products could lead to botulism and possible death. The Food and drugs Board therefore advices consumers to be cautious and not patronize the said brands of corned beef products. While assuring the public of its resolve to protect public health and safety, the FDB advises all well meaning Ghanaians to report any person or group of persons who may have or may be distributing the expired “Grace and Libby” Corned Beef brands or any other expired food products to the Food and Drugs Board for appropriate action to be taken. The general public is therefore reminded to call the following telephone numbers: 0244-337235, 0244-337243, 0244-337247 and 0244-33725.

GBC/Rel                                                       End                                                                  IA/