By Sarah Baafi
The Food and Drugs Authority (FDA) has announced that, effective February 1, 2026, all food service establishments operating without a valid Food Hygiene Permit will face closure.
This directive, described as a final warning, applies to all food businesses including restaurants, lounges, hotels, chop bars, snack bars, bakeries, food vans, event caterers, online food businesses, and canteens in schools, hospitals, and offices. The measure is aimed at ensuring compliance with food safety regulations and protecting public health.
In a statement, the FDA cited Section 130 (1) of the Public Health Act, 2012 (Act 851), which prohibits anyone from manufacturing, selling, supplying, or storing food products without operating from registered premises.
“Establishments found non-compliant will remain closed until they fully regularize their operations and obtain the Food Hygiene Permit,” the authority warned.
The FDA is urging all food operators to take immediate steps to comply with the law.
“This enforcement action is crucial to safeguarding public health and ensuring that food served to the public meets hygiene standards,” the agency added.
