FDA shuts down illegal alcoholic beverage manufacturing facility at Senfi in the Bekwai Municipality

The Food and Drugs Authority (FDA) in the Ashanti Region has shut down an alcoholic beverage manufacturing facility at Senfi in the Bekwai Municipality for allegedly operating illegally in an unhygienic environment.

The Authority has also seized materials used in the production of ARCAN Bitters as part of efforts to clamp down on the unlawful operations.

Ashanti Regional Director of FDA, Dr. Ashraf Haruna, said the seized items included 1,500 bottles of ARCAN Bitters, 5,000 empty bottles bearing the product’s label, and barrels used in the manufacturing process.

The director of the facility has been invited to assist with investigations but yet to report to the Authority.

“We invited the director of the facility, but he has not shown up yet. We are looking for him to assist us with our investigations. These items will be destroyed and will not be allowed onto the market,” Dr Haruna stated.

He further disclosed that investigations had revealed concerns about the substances used in producing the bitters, particularly the alleged presence of high levels of medication used to treat erectile dysfunction.

According to him, the FDA had previously cautioned the manufacturers over the issue, but they allegedly failed to comply with the directive.

The FDA has consequently urged the public to refrain from purchasing or consuming ARCAN Bitters until further notice, warning that the product could pose a risk to human health.

The Authority says its action forms part of ongoing efforts to protect public health and ensure that alcoholic beverages manufactured and sold in the country meet the required safety and regulatory standards.