POOR HANDLING OF TZ FLOUR

As part of its surveillance activities, the FDA has recently 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.

Worrying trend

The Authority 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 officers to the location in March 2023 revealed that this unhealthy practice is being used by both market women and millers to remove any form of moisture from the flour for effective storage.

Intervention

Initial engagements with the market women and millers on site showed that they are oblivious of the potential health hazards associated with this practice.

While on site, the Authority sensitised the market women and millers on the harmful effects of such practices, and in 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 effective alternative means.

Further efforts have also been made by the Authority 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.

This, like many other food safety measures requires collective efforts and we all ought to join in the fight to end this menace and avoid any future outbreak of food borne diseases.