The Consumer Protection Agency (CPA) has lauded the Food and Drugs Authority (FDA) for its bold actions against the widespread circulation of substandard and harmful baby diapers on the Ghanaian market.

This follows the FDA’s recent confiscation and destruction of over one million pieces of what many refer to as “fake diapers,” a growing public health concern linked to severe skin rashes, infections, and discomfort among babies and toddlers.

In a strongly worded statement, the CPA confirmed that its own investigations, conducted across five key regions—Greater Accra, Kumasi, Tamale, Sefwi Wiawso, and Sunyani—revealed disturbing findings. Microbial tests carried out on several diaper brands showed alarming levels of contamination, with many products failing standard quality checks.

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According to the CPA, many of the harmful diapers on the market had originally been rejected during manufacturing in their countries of origin due to poor quality and were meant for destruction. Instead, these rejected goods were salvaged at minimal cost, often from dumpsites, repackaged in plain polythene bags, and smuggled into Ghana.

“These diapers are stored, handled, and transported under unhygienic conditions that heighten the risk of microbial contamination. The consequences for infants can be dire—ranging from severe rashes around the anus and genitals to serious infections that could become life-threatening if left untreated,” the statement warned.

Executive Director of Mediation and Arbitration at the CPA, Nana Prempeh Aduhene, who signed the statement, raised a critical concern: “Are the over five million babies and toddlers in Ghana not deserving of clean, safe, and hygienic diapers? Must our children suffer just because unethical importers prioritise profit over health?”.

The CPA is urging all Ghanaian parents, especially mothers, to avoid purchasing unregulated and suspicious diaper brands. The agency is also calling on the Customs Division of the Ghana Revenue Authority to intensify scrutiny at all entry points to block the importation of such dangerous goods.

“Paediatric health is a national priority—our babies and children are the most vulnerable members of our society and must be protected at all costs,” the CPA stressed.

The Agency reaffirmed its readiness to partner with the FDA on a nationwide campaign to raise awareness and eliminate fake diapers from the market.

“We deeply appreciate the FDA’s ongoing efforts and commitment to public health,” the statement added.

“Together, we can ensure a safer and healthier future for every Ghanaian child.”