The Food and Drugs Authority (FDA) has ordered the immediate withdrawal of alcoholic beverages mixed with stimulants from the Ghanaian market, citing significant public health concerns linked to their consumption.

The directive affects all importers, manufacturers and distributors dealing in drinks that combine alcohol with substances such as caffeine, inositol, glucuronolactone, ginseng and guarana.

Companies have been given until the end of March 2026 to remove the products or risk regulatory action.

According to the FDA, the decision follows a detailed post-registration assessment conducted under Sections 81 and 82(a) of the Public Health Act, 2012 (Act 851), which examined both the safety profile and regulatory status of these beverages.

The review also considered international practices, where several jurisdictions have restricted or banned similar products due to health risks.

Regulators warn that combining alcohol with stimulants can mask intoxication, increase risky behaviour and expose especially young consumers to serious health complications.

“Findings from the review were supported by the FDA’s Food Expert Committee, specifically the Technical Advisory Committee on Food Safety and Nutrition. Consequently, the FDA has directed all importers, manufacturers, and distributors of mixed drinks containing both alcohol and stimulants to clear such products from the Ghanaian market by the end of March 2026 without sanctions.

“Beyond this deadline, non-compliant products will attract regulatory sanctions, including withdrawal from the market.

“This directive takes effect immediatelym,” the statement said.

FDA instructed manufacturers and producers “to reformulate their products to conform strictly to the approved standards for alcoholic beverages and energy drinks as separate product categories”.

FDA emphasised committment to “safeguarding public health and safety and ensuring that all food and beverage products on the Ghanaian market meet approved safety, quality, and regulatory standards”.

“Consumers are encouraged to remain vigilant and report any suspicious or non-compliant products to the FDA for necessary investigation and enforcement action,” the statement added.