The Food and Drugs Authority (FDA) has directed all importers, manufacturers, and distributors of mixed drinks containing both alcohol and stimulants to withdraw such products from the Ghanaian market by the end of March 2026 without attracting sanctions.
After the deadline, any non‑compliant products will face regulatory actions, including withdrawal from the market.
“This directive takes effect immediately,” the FDA said in a statement issued in Accra and copied to the Ghana News Agency.
According to the Authority, the directive follows the conclusion of a post‑registration review of mixed drinks containing alcohol—classified as a depressant—and stimulants such as caffeine, inositol, glucuronolactone, ginseng, and guarana. The review indicated that such combinations pose serious health risks to consumers.
It noted that the assessment also considered international and regional regulatory precedents, as several countries have restricted, suspended, or banned alcoholic energy drinks due to their associated public health concerns.
“The review assessed the safety and regulatory compliance of these products on the Ghanaian market. It was conducted under Sections 81 and 82(a) of the Public Health Act, 2012 (Act 851), which empowers the FDA to enforce standards necessary to protect public health and safety,” the statement said.
It added that growing scientific and public health evidence links the combined consumption of alcohol and stimulants to serious health risks and adverse psychosocial behaviours, particularly among the youth, young adults, and unsuspecting consumers.
The findings were endorsed by the FDA’s Food Expert Committee, specifically the Technical Advisory Committee on Food Safety and Nutrition.
The Authority therefore advised manufacturers and producers to reformulate their products to meet approved standards for Alcoholic Beverages and Energy Drinks as separate product categories.
The FDA reaffirmed its commitment to safeguarding public health and ensuring that all food and beverage products on the Ghanaian market comply with approved safety, quality, and regulatory requirements.
It also encouraged consumers to remain vigilant and report any suspicious or non‑compliant products to the Authority for investigation and enforcement action.
GNA
