The Food and Drugs Authority (FDA) in the Central Region has announced plans to inspect the certifications of food vendors operating in schools to ensure pupils are served safe and healthy meals.

Regional Director of the FDA, Francisca Anokye, said the exercise has become necessary to prevent uncertified vendors from operating in schools.

She made this known at a food safety training programme organised for School Health Education Promoters (SHEP) in the Cape Coast Metropolis.

According to her, the FDA, in collaboration with the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), is also training food vendors across the region to help curb outbreaks of foodborne illnesses. Ghana has already recorded four such outbreaks this year.

Metro SHEP Coordinator, Betty Vanderpuije, expressed gratitude to the FDA and FAO for the training, noting that it has equipped teachers to educate pupils on food safety and monitor vendors.

She added that efforts will be made to ensure food sold in schools is free from harmful chemicals.