FDA requirements for opening an eatery in Ghana have been outlined by Prince Opoku Adutwum, Ashanti Regional Principal Regulatory Officer of the Food and Drugs Authority, during a discussion on Orange Sunrise with Alfa Ali.
According to him, it is mandatory for anyone who intends to establish an eatery to obtain a license from the FDA before commencing operations.
Business Registration and Medical Certification
Prince Opoku Adutwum explained that one of the key FDA requirements for opening an eatery is obtaining a business registration certificate from the Registrar-General’s Department.
In addition, all workers who will be involved in handling or processing food must be medically certified as fit. He stated that this medical certification is conducted by the Environmental Health Departments of the various Metropolitan, Municipal or District Assemblies.
For instance, if the eatery is located within Asokwa, the owner must visit the Environmental Health Department of the Asokwa Municipal Assembly to arrange medical examinations for staff. The medical cards issued to food handlers must be submitted as part of the licensing process.
Documents Required by FDA
Prince Opoku Adutwum noted that applicants must submit the following documents to meet FDA requirements:
- Photocopy of the company’s registration certificate
- Medical cards of all food handlers
- An application letter addressed to the Chief Executive Officer of the Food and Drugs Authority requesting licensing of the facility
He added that applicants are also required to complete an official FDA form as part of the submission process. The forms are available at FDA offices and can also be downloaded from the Authority’s website.
According to him, applicants who download and complete the form beforehand can submit it together with their supporting documents to avoid delays at the office.
Payment of Fees and Digital Submission
Prince Opoku Adutwum stated that after submitting the required documents, applicants are required to pay a licensing fee. The fee is determined by the size, capacity and expected output of the facility.
He explained that client service officers assess the details provided and determine the appropriate fee based on the scale of operations.
He further indicated that the FDA has introduced digital processes to make applications more convenient. Applicants do not necessarily need to visit the office physically. Required documents can be submitted via the official office email, where officers acknowledge receipt and forward the application for processing.
If the documentation is in order, the applicant is provided with the official mobile money number to pay the corresponding fee.
Inspection of the Facility
Prince Opoku Adutwum emphasized that meeting FDA requirements does not end with document submission and payment. After processing the application, officers are assigned to conduct a physical inspection of the facility.
In the case of an eatery, inspections are conducted based on the Code of Hygienic Practices for Food Service Establishments. Officers assess the premises to ensure that proper hygienic standards are maintained.
He explained that the first inspection is conducted after an application has been submitted and arrangements have been agreed upon.
