No Alcoholic Beverage Registered as Aphrodisiac — FDA

Kumasi, March 27, — The Food and Drugs Authority (FDA) has warned media outlets against promoting alcoholic beverages as sexual enhancers, emphasizing that no such product is registered in Ghana for that purpose.

Speaking at a training session for morning show hosts in Kumasi, Mr Prince Opoku Adutwum, Head of Enforcement at the FDA Ashanti Regional Office, stated that all approved alcoholic drinks are classified strictly as food, not as medicines or aphrodisiacs.

“Any advertisement suggesting that an alcoholic beverage can enhance sexual performance is misleading and unlawful,” he said.

Mr Adutwum cited the Public Health Act, 2012 (Act 851), particularly Sections 114(1) and 148, noting that all products must be registered and cleared by the FDA before they can be advertised. He added that regulation of advertisements protects the public, prevents misinformation, and safeguards vulnerable groups such as children and pregnant women.

Ms Zeinab Serwaah Acheampong, in charge of Product Registration, outlined the approval process, which typically takes 21 working days, with an express option available within five days. She noted that approval can be granted for one or two years and warned against advertising products without FDA clearance across radio, TV, print, or online platforms.

Dr Abigail Arthur, Head of the Drugs Unit, cautioned against using endorsements from health professionals, scientists, or celebrities to promote medicinal claims. She emphasised that advertisements must strictly follow approved product labels and avoid inducements such as gifts or price-based promotions.

Mr Daniel Yaw Geraldo, FDA Public Relations Officer in the region, highlighted the importance of media collaboration in safeguarding public health and expressed optimism that the training would curb the growing trend of unapproved and misleading advertisements.

The engagement forms part of the FDA’s ongoing efforts to strengthen compliance and promote responsible advertising practices in the interest of public safety.

GHBUSS

March 27, 2026