The Food and Drugs Authority has ordered the immediate closure of all food service establishments across Ghana operating without a valid Food Hygiene Permit, effective February 1, 2026.
According to the authority, the directive serves as a final warning to operators who have failed to regularise their businesses in line with public health regulations.
In a statement issued on Monday, February 2, the Food and Drugs Authority said, “The Food and Drugs Authority (FDA) wishes to inform the general public that, effective 1st February 2026, all food service establishments operating without a valid Food Hygiene Permit will be closed down.”
The regulator explained that the enforcement action applies broadly to all categories of food service providers.
“This directive, which serves as a final warning, applies to all food businesses such as restaurants, lounges, hotels, chop bars, snack bars, food vans, bakeries, event caterers, online food businesses, canteens (in schools, hospitals, offices), and all other establishments involved in food service.”
The authority said the move is grounded in existing public health laws and is aimed at safeguarding consumer safety nationwide.
“This enforcement action is in strict accordance with Section 130 (1) of the Public Health Act, 2012 (Act 851), which states that a person shall not manufacture for sale, sell, supply or store products regulated under this Part except in premises registered for that purpose under this Part.”
The Food and Drugs Authority cautioned that non-compliant businesses will not be allowed to resume operations until all regulatory requirements are met.
“Establishments found non-compliant will remain closed until they fully regularize their operations and obtain the Food Hygiene Permit. The FDA urges all operators to take immediate steps to ensure compliance in the interest of public health and safety.”
Next steps for affected establishments
Food business owners seeking to regularise their operations can apply for a Food Hygiene Permit through the Food and Drugs Authority Ghana website.
The process involves downloading the Food Hygiene Permit Application Form, submitting the completed form together with a business registration certificate to the FDA Head Office at Shiashie, or any Regional Office, and undergoing a facility inspection to confirm compliance with Good Hygienic Practices.
