The Food and Drugs Authority (FDA) has ordered the immediate suspension of Tasty Tom Enriched Tomato Mix production after an investigation revealed serious lapses in manufacturing standards at Nutrifoods Ghana Limited’s facility. 

The regulator has also mandated a full recall of all canned products and specific batches of the 380g and 1.05kg pouches due to contamination risks.

The decision follows multiple consumer complaints and an FDA inspection that uncovered poor equipment maintenance, compromised sealing mechanisms, and the presence of mold on some products. Bloated cans and pouches were identified as key indicators of potential health hazards, prompting swift regulatory action.

Repeat offender under scrutiny

This is not the first time Nutrifoods has faced sanctions. The company was barred from manufacturing the same product in January 2025, raising questions about regulatory oversight. The FDA has now launched an internal probe to determine if there were lapses in enforcement.

“Any dereliction of duty identified will be swiftly dealt with to strengthen the FDA’s regulatory oversight,” the Authority stated in its press release.

Voluntary recall preceded suspension

Before the FDA’s suspension, Nutrifoods had issued a voluntary recall on August 1, 2025, covering 210g and 400g canned tomato mixes, alongside affected pouch batches. The company attributed the move to FDA and National Security directives after reports of bloating.

“We deeply regret any inconvenience caused to our consumers and trade partners,” Nutrifoods said in its statement. “We are committed to delivering high-quality products meeting all required national food safety standards.”

Affected customers have been advised to return products to Nutrifoods’ Tema Office or authorised distributors for replacements. The company can also be reached via 050 538 4429 or tastytom.GH@olamnet.com.

Public health warning

The FDA has urged consumers, retailers, and wholesalers to comply with the recall, emphasising its commitment to safeguarding public health.

“We will continue to exercise rigorous oversight in accordance with our mandate,” the release said.

For inquiries, the FDA can be contacted via 0551112224/5, fda@fda.gov.gh, or its social media handles (@fdaghana).