FDA explains why banned ‘tsofi’ is still sold in Ghana

The Food and Drugs Authority (FDA) has explained why turkey tail, popularly known in Ghana as tsofi, continues to appear on the market despite an official ban that has been in place for more than two decades.

According to the authority, the product remains difficult to completely eliminate from Ghana’s food supply chain because of the manner in which it is imported and concealed within consignments of frozen products.

Turkey tail was banned in Ghana in 1999 due to concerns about its high fat content and the potential health risks associated with excessive consumption.

Health authorities have repeatedly warned that the product contains unhealthy levels of fat that may contribute to obesity, hypertension, heart disease, and other health complications.

However, despite the ban, the product continues to surface in some markets and cold stores across the country, prompting renewed concerns from regulators and consumers alike.

The issue returned to public attention after the FDA intensified warnings about the continued circulation of the banned product within the frozen food market.

Speaking to Citi News, Deputy Chief Executive of the Food Division of the FDA, Roderick Kwabena Daddey-Adjei, acknowledged the challenges authorities face in detecting and intercepting turkey tail imports at the country’s entry points.

According to him, smugglers and importers often hide the banned product among other frozen food items, making it difficult for inspection officers to immediately identify it during routine checks.

“It might be that people will use some unapproved routes. Some will even be able to use the port. But like I said, it is frozen and then it is mixed up with other items in the consignment.

“When we are doing inspections, it is not like a 100 percent check. You sample, then pick, and then look at it. But lately, even for those who are bringing in frozen meat, there has been a concern for some contraband. Authorities will be doing what we call ‘side verification inspections’ with those who bring in frozen products.”

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