An unhealthy practice being used by both market women and millers to remove any form of moisture from the flour for effective storage has come to the attention of Food and Drugs Authority(FDA) to engage market women and millers who are oblivious of the potential health hazards associated with this practice.

As part of the Authority’s surveillance activities, it has noted the unhealthy practice of drying of corn and cassava flour used for the preparation of “Tuo Zaafi” on some pavements along the Kanda Highway in Accra, exposing the flour to dust and other contaminants.

A visit by FDA officials to the location in March 2023 noted an emerging trend in the poor handling of the key ingredients used in the preparation of one of Ghana’s local delicacies called “Tuo Zaafi” which requires prompt actions from all.

While on site, the Authority sensitised the market women and millers on the harmful effects of such practices, and I April 2023, the FDA embarked on various activities to engage the market women and millers as part of its consumer education drive.

Subsequently, those involved in the unhealthy practice cooperated with the FDA officers and sought to put an end to this practice by devising better and more effective alternative means.

According to the Authority, efforts have been made to engage local authorities like the Assembly members, Officials of the Roads and Highway Authority and the law enforcement agencies to work with the market women and millers to ensure compliance.

The Authority urged the general public not to hesitate to get in touch with them to join in the fight to end this menace and avoid any future outbreak of food borne disease.