The Food and Drugs Authority (FDA) of Ghana has imposed a GH¢100,000 fine on Lamens Investments Africa Limited for violating regulatory standards in the handling and repackaging of imported Moshosho Rice from India.
Investigations revealed that the company repackaged approximately 22,000 bags of 50kg rice labeled as “Made in Ghana.” This process was conducted in an unlicensed facility without prior FDA approval, and the packaging failed to include critical information such as manufacturing and expiration dates.
In a statement, the FDA highlighted that the company violated essential regulatory procedures, compromising public health safeguards. “Re-bagging the rice without prior FDA approval, conducting operations in an unlicensed facility, and failing to ensure FDA supervision are breaches that undermine safety standards,” the FDA noted.
Despite these infractions, the FDA clarified that the fine was unrelated to the quality of the rice itself, which passed rigorous laboratory analyses conducted by reputable institutions in both Ghana and India, including the Centre for Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR). The rice was confirmed to meet safety standards.
However, concerns were raised about the mishandling of the product, which the FDA stated could compromise public confidence in the food supply chain. To address these concerns, the FDA emphasized the need for strict adherence to established safety procedures.
Separately, the FDA approved an extension of the rice’s Best Before date from December 20, 2023, to April 30, 2024, following a thorough scientific evaluation. A further request to extend the date to December 2024 was declined due to insufficient stability data.
The FDA also addressed criticisms regarding its practice of accepting partial payments for administrative fines. It explained that this policy allows regulatory enforcement to proceed while ensuring companies remain financially accountable.
“We are committed to safeguarding public health and maintaining trust in the food supply chain. Decisive enforcement actions like this are essential to upholding our standards,” the FDA stated.
The fine against Lamens Investments underscores the FDA’s resolve to ensure compliance with regulatory requirements, emphasizing the importance of responsible business practices in protecting consumer safety.
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