FDA Faces Challenges Enforcing Recall of Banned Alcoholic Drink
The Food and Drugs Authority (FDA) is grappling with major enforcement difficulties in removing the banned Grand Chateaux Sangria Forte from the Ghanaian market, despite a nationwide recall issued two months ago.
In a statement on March 18, 2025, the FDA ordered the recall of the 250ml Sangria Tetra Pack, citing safety concerns. However, the agency says compliance has been limited.
Speaking to JoyNews, FDA Director of Enforcement Vigil Prah Anshong revealed that only a portion of the product has been successfully recalled. “Out of 33,811 cartons imported, only 9,073 have been retrieved,” he disclosed. “We gave the importer 14 days to remove all units, but the recall has been only partially successful.”
A second phase — a mop-up operation — was launched, but the effort has been hampered by reports of unauthorized imports of the banned drink. According to Mr. Anshong, “Other parties have been found importing the same product, complicating the situation further. We instructed the original importer to proceed with the recall while we intensified surveillance at border points.”
The eastern border town of Aflao has been identified as a key enforcement weak point. “Importers are finding ways to bypass our systems,” Anshong admitted. “Once someone is determined to keep a product in circulation, they often succeed in evading restrictions.”
The FDA is warning the public — particularly parents — not to purchase or consume the Sangria Tetra Pack, stressing that the alcoholic beverage could be mistaken for a child-friendly drink due to its packaging. “We urge parents not to give this product to children. It’s alcoholic and has been banned for safety reasons,” the FDA emphasized.
Efforts are ongoing to fully remove the product from circulation. The FDA says it is working in collaboration with customs and border security agencies to close enforcement gaps and ensure the recall is completed.
