ACCRA, Ghana — A common household practice used by some food vendors and consumers in Ghana has come under scrutiny after the Food and Drugs Authority (FDA) warned against using washing powders, bar soaps and other unsuitable cleaning products to wash dishes and bowls used for food.
The warning has raised fresh concerns about food safety and the possibility of chemical residues remaining on utensils and eventually coming into contact with food.
FDA raises red flag over washing powders
According to the FDA’s Western Regional Director, Dr Martin Kusi, food vendors should stop using washing powders, bar soaps and “Azuma balls” to clean bowls.
Speaking during a food-safety sensitisation programme in Takoradi, Dr Kusi advised vendors to use appropriate-grade bar or liquid dishwashing soaps instead.
The concern, he explained, is that unsuitable cleaning products can remain on utensils if they are not properly rinsed, potentially creating health problems for consumers.
The danger may be hiding on your plates
For many households and food vendors, washing powder is readily available and may appear to offer a convenient way to remove grease and dirt.
But the FDA’s warning highlights an important distinction: a product designed for washing clothes is not necessarily suitable for utensils that come into direct contact with food.
Improper cleaning can leave residues on bowls, plates and other food-contact surfaces. According to the FDA’s guidance reported by the Ghana News Agency, such residue could contribute to stomach problems.
FDA urges food vendors to change the practice
The warning forms part of wider efforts to improve food handling and hygiene among food vendors.
The FDA has repeatedly emphasised the importance of preventing contamination throughout the food chain. Its regulatory mandate covers food safety as well as household chemical substances, and the Authority says regulated products must meet applicable safety and quality requirements.
It’s not just about washing the bowl
Food safety goes beyond having visibly clean plates.
The FDA and other food-safety authorities have also warned food vendors about practices that can increase contamination risks, including poor waste disposal and improper storage or handling of food.
The FDA’s recent food-safety campaign similarly stresses that protecting consumers requires safe practices from food preparation through to the point of consumption.
What should consumers do?
Consumers and food vendors should use cleaning products specifically intended for dishes and food-contact utensils and follow the product’s instructions for use.
Utensils should also be thoroughly rinsed after washing to remove soap or detergent residues.
And while a clean-looking bowl may appear safe, proper cleaning practices remain important to ensure that potentially harmful residues and contaminants do not make their way into meals.
A simple habit that could make a difference
The FDA’s warning is a reminder that not every cleaning product belongs in the kitchen sink.
For food vendors especially, choosing an appropriate dishwashing product and maintaining proper hygiene can help reduce avoidable contamination risks and protect customers.
So, before reaching for that washing powder to clean your plates or bowls, think twice — the FDA says using the right product for food-contact utensils matters.
