The Food and Drugs Authority (FDA) has moved from warnings to enforcement, shutting down 16 food service establishments across the Greater Accra Region on Wednesday, February 18, for operating without valid Food Hygiene Permits.

The action comes exactly two weeks after the Authority issued a public notice stating that, effective February 1, all non-compliant facilities would face immediate closure.

In a statement posted on its official Facebook page, the FDA confirmed it had followed through on that directive.

Among the 16 establishments closed during the exercise were several well-known spots, including: The Cheesecake House, Dolce Frizzante, Onda, Alora Beach Resort.

“Two weeks after our notice to the public… we have taken action,” the FDA stated. “Today, 16 non-compliant food service establishments in Greater Accra Region… were shut down for failing to meet regulatory requirements.”

The enforcement drive goes beyond upscale restaurants and lounges. The FDA’s directive applies to a wide range of food-related businesses, including: Hotels and event caterers, Traditional “chop bars” and snack bars, Food vans and bakeries, Online food vendors, Canteens in schools, hospitals, and offices.

The Authority said the closures are necessary to protect consumers and maintain standards across the food supply chain.

“We remain committed to protecting public health and ensuring that all food service providers operate in strict compliance with good hygiene practices,” the Authority reaffirmed.

The FDA has urged operators who have not yet regularized their documentation to do so immediately to avoid similar enforcement action.

The affected establishments are expected to remain closed until they meet all regulatory requirements and obtain valid Food Hygiene Permits.