FDA cautions media against advertising unapproved foods and drugs

The Food and Drugs Authority (FDA) has issued a stern warning to media houses across the country, cautioning them against advertising unapproved food and drug products.

According to the authority, any media institution found culpable risks being sanctioned in accordance with the law.

The FDA explained that it is illegal for any food or drug to be advertised without prior approval.

This caution was issued by the Ashanti Regional Principal Regulatory Officer of the FDA, Prince Ohene Gyan, during an interview on Otec FM’s “Nyansapo” programme, hosted by KOB, on Friday, August 29, 2025.

Sanctions for non-compliance

He stated that both the manufacturers of such products and the media outlets that promote them could face a fine of a minimum of GHC25,000 each.

The law, Ohene Gyan emphasized, is aimed at protecting public health and ensuring that consumers are not misled by false or unverified claims.

To avoid falling foul of the law, “the authority is urging media houses to request approval documents from advertisers before airing or publishing food and drug promotions,” he stated.

 “Media outlets are advised to demand FDA approval letters along with full product details as part of their vetting processes,” Ohene Gyan cautioned.

Combating harmful products

He emphasized that the proliferation of harmful and fake products on the market is partly fueled by irresponsible media advertising.

Mr. Ohene Gyan noted that dishonest individuals are taking advantage of unsuspecting consumers by promoting unapproved products, many of which pose serious health risks.

He said, “The FDA is committed to cracking down on such practices and will not hesitate to apply the necessary sanctions”.

Working together for public safety

Mr. Ohene Gyan appealed to media institutions to join the fight against the spread of unsafe products by verifying the legitimacy of every health-related advertisement.

 “The FDA remains open to collaboration with media houses to ensure that the Ghanaian public is only exposed to safe and approved products, he added.

Source: Ghana/otecfmghana.com/Francis Appiah