FDA Closes 16 Accra Food Establishments Over Hygiene Permit Violations
The Food and Drugs Authority (FDA) has shut down 16 food service establishments across the Greater Accra Region for operating without valid Food Hygiene Permits, escalating its enforcement efforts against non-compliant businesses.
The closures, carried out on Wednesday, February 18, follow a public notice issued by the Authority indicating that from February 1, facilities failing to meet regulatory requirements would face immediate sanctions. According to the FDA, the latest exercise demonstrates its commitment to enforcing food safety standards and safeguarding public health.
In a statement shared on its official social media platforms, the Authority confirmed that it had acted on its earlier warning. Among the affected establishments were some popular dining and hospitality spots, including The Cheesecake House, Dolce Frizzante, Onda, and Alora Beach Resort.
The FDA stressed that the enforcement operation was not limited to high-end restaurants. It applies broadly to all food-related businesses required to obtain proper certification before operating. These include hotels, event catering services, traditional chop bars, snack bars, bakeries, food vans, online food vendors, and institutional canteens located in schools, hospitals, and offices.
According to the Authority, compliance with food hygiene regulations is essential to maintaining safety standards across the food supply chain. It reiterated that businesses operating without valid permits pose potential health risks to consumers and undermine regulatory oversight.
The FDA further urged all operators who have yet to regularise their documentation to do so promptly to avoid similar sanctions. It emphasised that the exercise forms part of ongoing monitoring and inspection activities designed to ensure adherence to established public health guidelines.
The affected establishments are expected to remain closed until they fulfil all regulatory requirements, including obtaining valid Food Hygiene Permits. The Authority reaffirmed its resolve to uphold strict hygiene practices and ensure that food service providers operate in full compliance with national safety standards.
