The Food and Drugs Authority (FDA) is urging the public to exercise caution when combining different types of food and food products. While the FDA certifies the quality, quantity, ingredients, and nutritional content of specific food items, it emphasises that consumers bear the responsibility of making healthy combinations.
Furthermore, consumers should consider the appropriate portions or amounts of these food products for consumption.
The Upper East Regional Head for the FDA, Sebastian Mawuli Hotor, addressed these concerns during an interview with Mark Smith on A1 Radio’s Day Break Upper East Show. The conversation aimed to provide clarity on why the FDA approves certain food products that may pose harm when consumed in excessive quantities.
The FDA emphasised that while it ensures the safety and quality of individual food products, the responsibility lies with consumers to make informed choices regarding their dietary combinations. Combining different foods can have a significant impact on one’s health, and it is essential to strike a balance by selecting complementary and nutritious options.
Consumers should consider factors such as nutritional value, potential interactions between ingredients, and appropriate portion sizes to maintain a healthy diet. By making conscious choices and being mindful of their dietary combinations, individuals can enhance their overall well-being and reduce the risk of adverse health effects.
“When it comes to public education, we do that. The Ghana Health Service and other mandated bodies do the same. Ghana Health Service is so much on these chronic diseases like diabetes and hypertension and so on. These are as a result of the consumption patterns of consumers. Ideally, though your health is our priority, as FDA, it is your priority too.”
“Imagine I wake up in the morning and I want to take a drink which has so much sugar and maybe I still want to add some more sugar or tea with sugar and want to add some cakes and some ice cream, then there is a problem. We [as FDA], approved the ice cream because it met the requirements. We approved the cake because it met the standards. We approved the drink because it met the standard but we didn’t approve the combination of all those,” he explained.
The FDA, Mr. Hotor explained remains committed to its role in regulating food and ensuring the safety of consumers. Through public awareness campaigns and educational initiatives, the FDA aims to empower individuals to make informed decisions about their dietary choices and encourage healthier eating habits.
Source: A1radioonline.com|101.1MHz|Mark Kwasi Ahumah Smith|Ghana
