Ghana does not have testing equipment for Trans Fatty Acids which is killing many

By Patrick Biddah

It has emerged that the Food and Drugs Authority (FDA) does not have equipment to test trans fatty acids.

As a result, the country does not know which oil is scientifically free of fatty acids, although there are many oils on the Ghanaian market which are being used in homes.

The only research by a medical doctor into trans  fatty acids in Ghana, has not been published yet, although information suggests that there is high concentration of trans  fatty acids in the oil we consume in Ghana.

To this end, participants who attended a workshop are urging government, particularly the Food and Drugs Authority to help with the funding for an equipment for the testing of trans fatty acids.

The Workshop was organized by the Institute of Leadership and Development ( INSLA)  in Accra.

It was the third in a series for civil society organization and the media to take their inputs as to the way forward towards eliminating trans fatty acids by 2023.

Trans fatty acids is a major risk factor for getting stroke, cancer, hypertension and diabetes.

The Programme Manager for the INSLA, Mr Issah Ali, who spoke at the workshop was of the view that the production of these trans fatty acids, have become a political issue where manufacturers of the product argue that they creating jobs which makes the policy makers unable to act in a way which will prevent people from getting the health implications arising from the intake of these oils .

The good thing he, however, noted was that the FDA is fine tuning some work which will lead to the passing of a legislation  .

On his part, the Director of INSLA, Mr David Anabila, called on the media to help with the massive campaign to end the use of trans fatty acids.

During the workshop, the participants told part in preparation of activities which will help in the fight against the trans fatty acids.