FDA has cautioned the public against using cement to preserve beans
The Food and Drugs Authority (FDA) has moved quickly to calm public fears following a viral video suggesting that cement is being used to preserve beans.
In a statement issued on February 16, 2026, the Authority cautioned Ghanaians against using cement or any other unapproved substances in food preservation, stressing that such practices are neither safe nor permitted under Ghana’s food safety regulations.
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The video circulating on social media appears to show beans being treated with a white powdery substance believed to be concrete cement.
However, the FDA clarified that the method shown does not represent approved agricultural or food preservation practices in Ghana.
According to the Authority, the practice depicted in the footage is not recognised or endorsed by the Plant Protection and Regulatory Services Directorate (PPRSD) under the Ministry of Food and Agriculture.
After reviewing the video, the FDA also noted that the language spoken in the footage does not appear to be Ghanaian.
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A translation of the narration reportedly exposes several unsafe and unhygienic handling methods, including the application of chemicals with bare hands and the absence of protective clothing.
The footage even shows a person standing directly on a heap of beans without any protective gear.
The Authority made it clear that cement has no place in food preservation in Ghana.
“The FDA, together with its stakeholder institutions, does not approve of food preservation practices that compromise food safety and public health,” the statement emphasised.
The FDA further condemned the use of unapproved substances and poor hygiene practices, particularly direct hand contact with food without protective wear, describing such acts as violations of acceptable food safety standards.
Reassuring the public, the Authority stressed that these practices are not encouraged in Ghana.
It also advised farm produce aggregators and retailers to avoid engaging in or promoting unsafe preservation methods.
Consumers have been encouraged to remain vigilant and report any suspicious food handling or preservation practices to the FDA for investigation and possible sanctions.
Read the full statement below:
#FDAGhana2026 #FDAGhanaPressRelease #FDACommunications pic.twitter.com/aANRwh2P8W
— FDAGhana (@fdaghana) February 17, 2026
NA/VPO
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Source:
www.ghanaweb.com