In order to justify its actions over the purported distribution of unwholesome rice to Senior High Schools (SHS), the Food and Drugs Authority (FDA) has stated that it is willing to participate in audits by both domestic and foreign organizations.
Before extending the best-before date for more than 22,000 bags of 50kg rice imported by Lamens Investments Africa Limited, the FDA was criticized for apparently not performing due diligence.
Dr. Delese Mimi Darko, the FDA’s chief executive officer, stated during a press conference on Tuesday that all clearances were made strictly in accordance with best practices and regulatory standards.
“To validate all its actions, the FDA is open to audits by qualified local and international bodies,” she said.
Dr. Darko clarified that the FDA managed use-by, expiration, and best-before-end dates in accordance with international best practices for food safety.
She also added : “In accordance with international best practices, the authority, like other authorities worldwide, may employ recognized regulatory extensions of best before dates after thorough testing and adherence to storage requirements.”
Amid the continuous criticism, she emphasized the FDA’s dedication to openness and protecting public health.
She reaffirmed, “We are unwavering in our resolve to safeguard public health and ensure food safety.”
In response to public concerns regarding the rice issue, Dr. Darko reassured them that thorough testing and verification procedures were carried out prior to its release.
“The FDA also wants to reassure the public that it examines the wholesomeness of the rice shipment in question and provides reassurance that, in conjunction with all other certificates submitted from India, PPRSD, and CSIR-FRI, the rice was deemed wholesome prior to being released for distribution,” she continued.
