The Food and Drugs Authority (FDA) has issued a strong public warning following the circulation of a viral video that claims beans can be preserved using a white powdery substance believed to be concrete cement.
In a press statement released on February 16, 2026, the FDA said it had “taken note of a viral video circulating on social media and purporting to demonstrate the preservation of beans using a white powdery substance believed to be concrete cement.”
According to the Authority, the method shown in the video is unsafe, unhygienic, and not approved under Ghana’s food safety regulations.
The FDA emphasised that the practice is not recognised as part of any legitimate Ghanaian agricultural or food preservation method. It further clarified that the technique is not recommended or endorsed by the Plant Protection and Regulatory Services Directorate (PPRSD) of the Ministry of Food and Agriculture.
Upon reviewing the footage, the Authority identified several concerning food handling practices. The narration in the video is not in any Ghanaian language, and translation suggests that chemicals are being applied directly to the beans without the use of protective gear. Individuals in the clip were seen handling the substance with bare hands.
In one instance, a person was shown standing on a heap of beans without any protective clothing or observable hygiene measures — a practice the FDA described as unacceptable and contrary to established food safety standards.
The Authority reiterated that food preservation must involve clean, approved substances and adhere strictly to hygienic handling procedures to safeguard public health.
“The FDA, together with its stakeholder institutions, does not approve of food preservation practices that compromise food safety and public health,” the statement said.
The regulator stressed that it does not endorse the use of unapproved industrial substances such as cement or other chemicals for preserving food. It added that any food preservation technique must be scientifically validated and officially approved before it can be recommended to the public.
The FDA also urged consumers to remain vigilant and report suspicious food handling or preservation practices to the Authority for further investigation and possible sanctions.
“Consumers should report any suspicious food handling or preservation practices to the Authority for the necessary investigations and sanctions,” it stated.
Reaffirming its mandate, the FDA assured the public of its continued commitment to safeguarding health and ensuring that all food products available on the Ghanaian market meet approved safety and quality standards.
