Over One Million Counterfeit Diapers Seized and Destroyed in Ghana Amid Health Concerns 

The Food and Drugs Authority (FDA) of Ghana has incinerated over one million counterfeit diapers that had infiltrated the country’s markets, citing grave health risks associated with their use. 

The diapers, intercepted in two separate container shipments, were found to be unfit for consumer use and posed a significant threat to public health. The destruction exercise, carried out in Ashaiman under strict environmental and regulatory oversight, is part of a broader crackdown on substandard hygiene products in the country. 

According to the FDA, the seized items were part of a growing influx of low-quality baby care goods that do not meet Ghana’s safety standards. The operation is a key element of the Authority’s ongoing strategy to rid the market of products that endanger public well-being, especially that of infants. 

Public alarm heightened after a March exposé by China’s state-run CCTV during its “3.15” Consumer Rights Day broadcast. The report uncovered that some rogue manufacturers were retrieving used diapers and sanitary pads from waste sites, reprocessing them, and branding them as new. These items, having failed quality checks in China, were deliberately diverted to developing countries like Ghana and sold at suspiciously low prices. 

“These practices are not only unethical—they’re dangerous,” an FDA spokesperson warned. “Infants exposed to such products face heightened risks of infections, allergic reactions, and other serious health issues. Ghana will not become a dumping ground for substandard or harmful goods.” 

In light of the revelations, the FDA has intensified efforts in collaboration with the Ghana Revenue Authority’s Customs Division, other governmental bodies, and international partners. Initiatives now include stricter import inspections, improved laboratory testing, surprise checks at retail outlets, and expanded consumer education. 

As part of its public campaign, the FDA is advising buyers to look out for telltale signs of fake products, such as extremely low prices, unknown brands, poor packaging, and missing certification labels. Consumers are also urged to report suspicious products through the Authority’s hotlines and digital platforms. 

The destruction of the counterfeit diapers reaffirms the FDA’s commitment to consumer safety and underscores the government’s zero-tolerance stance on unsafe baby products. The Ministry of Health, together with regulatory agencies, continues to support these efforts. 

The Consumer Protection Agency (CPA) has publicly applauded the FDA for taking strong action to remove substandard and potentially harmful baby diapers from the Ghanaian market. On May 27, the CPA issued a detailed press release acknowledging the FDA’s efforts, which have led to the seizure and destruction of more than one million defective diapers. 

These products, often referred to by the public as “fake diapers,” have been linked to serious health issues in babies, including skin rashes, infections, and irritation. According to the CPA, their investigations followed a wave of complaints from concerned parents across several regions, including Greater Accra, Kumasi, Tamale, Sefwi Wiawso, and Sunyani. 

“The results were deeply alarming. Microbial tests conducted on several diaper brands failed disastrously. The unhygienic conditions under which these diapers are stored, handled, and transported further increase the risk of microbial contamination, posing a serious threat to infant health,” the statement revealed. 

The CPA is urging all Ghanaian parents, especially mothers, to avoid purchasing unregulated and suspicious diaper brands. The agency is also calling on the Customs Division of the Ghana Revenue Authority to intensify scrutiny at all entry points to block the importation of such dangerous goods. 

“Paediatric health is a national priority—our babies and children are the most vulnerable members of our society and must be protected at all costs,” the CPA stressed. 

The Agency reaffirmed its readiness to partner with the FDA on a nationwide campaign to raise awareness and eliminate fake diapers from the market. 

“We deeply appreciate the FDA’s ongoing efforts and commitment to public health,” the statement added. “Together, we can ensure a safer and healthier future for every Ghanaian child.” 

source:www.nsemgh.com