The Consumer Protection Agency (CPA) has commended the Food and Drugs Authority (FDA) for its recent action against the influx of substandard and defective baby diapers on the Ghanaian market, which have been linked to serious health issues among infants and toddlers.

In a press statement released by the CPA on May 27, 2025, the agency revealed that over one million pieces of defective diapers—popularly referred to as "fake diapers"—have been seized and destroyed by the FDA in a nationwide clampdown.

These products, which had been widely circulated across various parts of the country, raised concerns among parents and health experts.

The CPA’s commendation follows an alarming investigation it conducted in five major regions: Greater Accra, Kumasi, Tamale, Sefwi Wiawso, and Sunyani.

The investigation was prompted by numerous complaints from mothers about skin rashes, discomfort, and infections experienced by their children after using certain diaper brands.

According to the CPA, laboratory tests on samples of these diapers revealed dangerous levels of microbial contamination. Shockingly, further inquiries showed that many of these products had been rejected in their countries of origin due to quality issues.

Instead of being destroyed, they were recovered—sometimes from waste dumps—repackaged in unbranded polyethylene bags, and smuggled into Ghana.

“These diapers are stored and transported under filthy and unhygienic conditions, significantly increasing the risk of infection. Some babies have suffered severe rashes and infections around their genital areas—conditions that could become life-threatening if left untreated,” said Nana Prempeh Aduhene, CPA’s Executive Director in charge of Mediation and Arbitration.

The CPA is urging Ghanaian parents, especially mothers, to stop purchasing unregulated diapers sold in suspicious packaging.

“Are the over five million babies and toddlers in Ghana not deserving of clean, safe, and hygienic diapers? Must our children suffer because of the greed of unscrupulous importers?”

The CPA has also called on the Customs Division of the Ghana Revenue Authority (CEPS) to tighten border checks and prevent the importation of such hazardous products. The agency emphasized that protecting pediatric health must be a national priority.

The CPA also expressed its readiness to collaborate with the FDA on a nationwide awareness and enforcement campaign to eliminate fake diapers from the market.

“Together, we can ensure a safer and healthier future for every Ghanaian child,” the statement concluded.

AM/KA