The Food and Drugs Authority (FDA) has dismissed as false claims circulating on social media that a dangerous cleaning chemical known as “Akesheshaa Parazone” is being secretly added to popular Ghanaian foods such as waakye, okro soup and ayoyo.
In a press release dated January 28, 2026, the Authority addressed viral videos suggesting that a bleach-like powder is being used by food vendors, posing serious health risks to consumers.
According to the FDA, investigations including laboratory analysis and market surveillance have confirmed that the white powder shown in the videos is sodium carbonate, also known as soda ash light, and not bleach or any hazardous cleaning substance.
The Authority explained that sodium carbonate is a globally approved food additive when used within recommended limits. It is commonly applied in food preparation to adjust pH levels, improve texture and enhance cooking outcomes.
It noted that sodium carbonate helps improve the slimy “draw” in okro and ayoyo soups and is also used to soften beans and meat during the preparation of waakye.
The FDA stressed that sodium carbonate is odourless, mildly salty in taste and safe when properly regulated, adding that it should not be confused with household bleach or chlorine-based cleaning agents.
While both substances may appear similar in colour, the Authority emphasised that they are fundamentally different. Sodium carbonate is approved for food use and safe when used appropriately, while bleach and other cleaning agents have a strong pungent smell, are toxic and extremely dangerous if ingested.
The Authority described claims linking sodium carbonate to bleach as misleading and based on misinformation, noting that the videos have created unnecessary fear among the public.
To protect public health, the FDA said it is intensifying market education and public sensitisation on approved food additives and enforcing labelling and regulatory requirements for authorised products.
The FDA urged the public to buy only properly labelled, FDA-approved products from trusted sources and to report any suspicious food handling practices, unusual chemical smells or adverse reactions through its official channels.
The statement, signed by the Acting Chief Executive Officer of the FDA, reaffirmed the Authority’s commitment to public safety and advised consumers to remain vigilant but not panic over unverified claims.
