The Upper East Regional Office of the Food and Drugs Authority (FDA) has intensified regulatory enforcement on sachet water producers, directing all operators to ensure strict compliance with ultraviolet (UV) sterilisation standards as part of efforts to safeguard public health.
At a sensitisation programme for producers in the region, officials of the FDA stressed that UV light treatment is a mandatory stage in water production and cannot be substituted by filtration systems alone.
Acting Upper East Regional Head of the FDA, Abel Ndego, explained that while reverse osmosis systems help remove fine particles from water, they do not eliminate harmful microorganisms.
He noted that UV systems installed in production lines are responsible for destroying remaining microbes, making them essential for ensuring safe drinking water.
According to him, “The reverse osmosis system is meant to separate very minute particles in the water but does not kill microorganisms. It is the UV lights that kill the living microbes that escape the process.”
He further warned that UV bulbs have a limited operational lifespan and must be replaced regularly, even if they still appear functional, stressing that failure to do so compromises water safety.
The FDA also announced stricter monitoring measures requiring producers to document all UV bulb replacements to help regulators verify compliance and sterilisation effectiveness.
As part of enforcement, the Authority introduced sanctions for non-compliance, including a GH¢2,000 spot fine for facilities found operating with non-functional UV systems or defective production lines.
Officials also raised concern over unethical practices uncovered during inspections, including the use of packaging materials belonging to other brands. The FDA described the practice as illegal and misleading to consumers, warning that it violates public health regulations.
Producers were urged to use properly branded packaging and avoid misrepresentation of products in the market.
The Ghana Standards Authority (GSA), represented by Enoch Akortia, also cautioned manufacturers against the unauthorised use of the GSA certification logo, stressing that only certified companies are permitted to display it.
Some participants at the training welcomed the engagement, saying it highlighted the importance of prioritising consumer safety over profit.
One producer, Joshua Akaperiba, said the programme helped reshape their approach to production, emphasizing the need to focus more on public health standards.
He noted that the education would improve compliance and ensure safer products for consumers across the region.
