Seven women have been arrested at Akyem Maase in the Eastern Region for allegedly being in possession of palm oil suspected to have been mixed with a harmful industrial dye.
The Food and Drugs Authority says the substance involved, known as Sudan dye, is sometimes illegally added to palm oil to enhance its red colour and make it more attractive to consumers. However, the Authority warns that ingestion of the dye has been linked to serious health risks, including an increased risk of cancer.
Officials say the arrests form part of ongoing enforcement efforts to clamp down on the sale and distribution of adulterated food products. The suspects are currently in custody as investigations continue.
The FDA has urged the public to exercise caution when purchasing palm oil and to report any suspected cases of adulteration, stressing that food safety remains a key public health priority.
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