Ghana Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics warns of food safety threats from illegal mining and ultra-processed foods
via GhanaWeb3 min read
The Ghana Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics GAND has raised concerns about growing food safety threats in Ghana, specifically citing illegal mining, known as galamsey, and the increased consumption of ultra-processed foods. These concerns were highlighted in a statement launching the 2026 National Nutrition Month, themed "Food Safety: Everyone鈥檚 Responsibility." GAND noted that galamsey activities contaminate rivers and groundwater with heavy metals like mercury, arsenic, lead, and cadmium, which can enter the food chain through farming and fishing. Studies on rivers such as the Pra, Offin, Ankobra, and Birim have shown heavy metal levels exceeding acceptable limits. Long-term exposure to these contaminants can lead to neurological damage, kidney problems, reproductive complications, and increased cancer risks, especially in children and pregnant women. Additionally, GAND expressed concern over ultra-processed foods, which often contain high levels of sugar, salt, and unhealthy fats, and may lack clear nutritional information. The Academy called for mandatory Front-of-Pack Warning Labels to help consumers make informed choices. GAND emphasized that foodborne diseases, including typhoid, cholera, dysentery, and viral hepatitis, continue to strain Ghana's healthcare system. Globally, the World Health Organization estimates 600 million people fall ill annually from contaminated food, resulting in 420,000 deaths, with children under five accounting for 125,000 deaths. Africa bea
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This summary was AI-generated from a story originally published by GhanaWeb.
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