The Food and Drugs Authority (FDA) has explained that turkey tail, popularly known in Ghana as “chofi” or “tsofi,” was banned because of its extremely high fat content and associated health risks.

According to the FDA, the importation and sale of turkey tails have been prohibited in Ghana since 1999 under the country’s food safety regulations.

Turkey tails, which are the fatty tail portions of turkeys, remain popular among some consumers and are often deep-fried and sold at roadside food joints and markets.

However, health authorities say the product poses serious public health concerns due to its high levels of fat and cholesterol.

The Deputy Chief Executive Officer of the FDA in charge of the Food Division, Mr. Roderick Daddey-Adjei, explained that Ghana’s food standards do not permit poultry products with fat content exceeding 15 percent.

“Section 4.3.2 reads that dressed poultry and/or poultry parts shall have fat contents of not more than 15 percent when tested,” he stated.

Health officials warn that excessive consumption of turkey tails may increase the risk of heart disease, obesity, hypertension, stroke, high cholesterol and other Non-Communicable Diseases.

The FDA also indicated that turkey tails may contain residues of veterinary drugs used in poultry production, posing additional health risks to consumers.

Despite the long-standing ban, authorities say the product continues to enter the country through illegal importation and smuggling routes.

In recent years, the FDA, together with the Ghana Police Service, has carried out operations in areas including Suhum and Nsawam-Adoagyiri, where cartons of turkey tails were confiscated and some traders arrested.

The Authority has urged the public to prioritise healthier food choices and purchase only approved food products that meet Ghana’s public health and safety standards.