The Food and Drugs Authority (FDA) has warned unlicensed canteens and food service units of possible closures if they fail to obtain a valid Food Hygiene Permit.
According to the FDA, failure to acquire the permit by February 29, 2024, could result in regulatory sanctions, including facility closures, fines, or criminal prosecutions.
In a statement signed by Dr. Delese Mimi Darko, the CEO of the FDA, the authority stressed the need to protect the public from potential disease outbreaks by ensuring that food service establishments comply with safety regulations.
Dr. Darko advised institutions to only contract licensed caterers for catering services and encouraged them to verify the Food Hygiene Permit status of vendors before engaging their services.
The FDA further advised the public to patronize only establishments that have obtained a valid Food Hygiene Permit, adding that the authority cannot guarantee the safety of food sold in unlicensed establishments.
Any food service establishment operating without a valid Food Hygiene Permit violates the Public Health Act 2012 (Act 851) and risks regulatory action by the FDA.
The FDA charged the public to report any food service establishment operating without a permit to the FDA for appropriate action.
Institutions operating unlicensed food service units are advised to take immediate steps to rectify their status by applying for a permit and undergoing food safety inspections.
The FDA reassured the public of its commitment to ensuring the safety and quality of food served in establishments across the country.