Consumer Protection Agency lauds FDA’s clamp down on cheap and harmful diapers

The Consumer Protection Agency (CPA) has extolled the action taken by the Food and Drugs Authority (FDA) to clamp down on cheap and defective diapers on the Ghanaian market.

CPA is optimistic that the move will help stop the influx of what they have described as “fake diapers” in the country.

This is contained in a press release issued on May 27.

“The Consumer Protection Agency (CPA) highly commends the Food and Drugs Authority (FDA) for its recent decisive actions to clamp down on cheap and defective diapers circulating in the Ghanaian market, widely referred to as “fake diapers.” The FDA In recent times has confiscated and burnt over 1 million pieces of these defective diapers.

Following complaints from mothers nationwide regarding skin rashes, discomfort, and infections associated with the use of certain baby diapers, the CPA initiated an intensive investigation. Our research covered five key regions—Greater Accra, Kumasi, Tamale, Sefwi Wiawso, and Sunyani,” Nana Prempeh Aduhene, Executive Director in charge of Mediation and Arbitration at CPA said.

He commended FDA for the move, as Microbial tests conducted on several diaper brands failed disastrously.

“Upon further investigation, it was discovered that many of these diapers were originally rejected during manufacturing in their home countries due to poor quality, and were meant for destruction. Instead, these products were salvaged at low cost—often from trash heaps—and repackaged into plain polyethylene bags before being smuggled into Ghana for public use,” he bemoaned.

Below is the Press Release from the FDA

PRESS STATEMENT ON FAKE AND DEFECTIVE DIAPERS ON THE MARKET CAUSING SEVERE HEALTH ISSUES FOR BABIES AND CHILDREN*

The Consumer Protection Agency (CPA) highly commends the Food and Drugs Authority (FDA) for its recent decisive actions to clamp down on cheap and defective diapers circulating in the Ghanaian market, widely referred to as “fake diapers.” The FDA In recent times has confiscated and burnt over 1 million pieces of these defective diapers.

Following complaints from mothers nationwide regarding skin rashes, discomfort, and infections associated with the use of certain baby diapers, the CPA initiated an intensive investigation. Our research covered five key regions—Greater Accra, Kumasi, Tamale, Sefwi Wiawso, and Sunyani.

The results were deeply alarming. Microbial tests conducted on several diaper brands failed disastrously. Upon further investigation, it was discovered that many of these diapers were originally rejected during manufacturing in their home countries due to poor quality, and were meant for destruction. Instead, these products were salvaged at low cost—often from trash heaps—and repackaged into plain polyethylene bags before being smuggled into Ghana for public use.

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.

Disturbingly, some babies suffered severe diaper rashes around the anus and genital areas, with infections ranging from mild to life-threatening if left untreated.

**Are the over 5 million babies and toddlers in Ghana not deserving of clean, safe, and hygienic diapers?
Must our children suffer just because unethical importers prioritize profit over health?
*
*We call on all Ghanaian parents—especially mothers—to immediately cease patronizing these unregulated and dangerous products. Let us collectively protect our children from further harm.

We also call on the Office of the Commissioner of Customs (CEPS) to take urgent action to block the importation of these fake and defective diapers at all entry points. Pediatric health is a national priority—our babies and children are the most vulnerable members of our society and must be protected at all costs.

Once again, we extend our deepest appreciation to the FDA for its ongoing efforts and commitment to public health. The CPA stands ready to partner with the FDA on a nationwide campaign to eliminate fake diapers and address other critical consumer safety issues. Together, we can ensure a safer and healthier future for every Ghanaian child.

Nana Prempeh Aduhene
Executive Director in charge of Mediation and Arbitration.

By Nana Yaw Opare

 

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