The Food and Drugs Authority (FDA) says its investigation into a video alleging the use of chemicals to accelerate plantain ripening at the Madina Market in Accra has identified Ethemax as the product reportedly used by some traders.

The investigation was conducted in collaboration with the Environmental Health Unit of the La Nkwantanang-Madina Municipal Assembly. The FDA said it engaged traders at the market and the individual featured in the video.

Ethemax contains ethephon

The FDA said Ethemax contains ethephon 480g/L SL as its active ingredient and is labelled as a plant growth regulatorwith a “harmful” hazard warning.

The investigation also identified the trader involved in the sale and distribution of the product within the market, and the FDA said it had engaged her.

Regulatory action

The FDA said it is working with relevant authorities to take appropriate regulatory action against those involved in the unauthorised sale, distribution or inappropriate use of the product.

It advised the public to use agricultural chemicals strictly according to approved conditions of use and label instructions, warning that incorrect concentrations or use on unauthorised commodities could pose food safety risks.

The authority cautioned against the indiscriminate use of chemicals to accelerate plantain ripening, saying inappropriate use could result in unacceptable chemical residues and compromise food safety.

Consumers have been advised to buy fruits and vegetables from trusted sources and wash fresh produce thoroughly with potable water before consumption.

The FDA said it will continue food safety education and market surveillance and encouraged the public to report suspected unsafe food handling or inappropriate chemical use for investigation.