The Food and Drugs Authority (FDA) has conducted a major enforcement operation at Makola Market in Accra, leading to the arrest of several traders allegedly involved in the sale of a controversial product locally referred to as “cigarette toffee.”
The operation, carried out on August 29, 2026, with support from the Ghana Police Service, targeted the sale of cigarette-shaped confectionery that has sparked widespread public outrage in recent days . The product, also known as “Cigarette Rod Lollipop” or “Smoking Pop Candy,” features sticks designed to resemble lit cigarettes with orange tips and is packaged in boxes depicting children smoking .
Public Outrage and Legal Concerns
The sale of the product has generated significant public concern, with prominent figures including pharmacist Dr. George Anagli and musician Kofi Kinaata calling for its immediate removal from the market. Critics argue that such products risk glamorising smoking to children and normalising tobacco use at a young age .
The FDA has emphasised that the sale and distribution of such products contravenes Ghana’s tobacco control laws. Under the Public Health Act, 2012 (Act 851) and the Tobacco Control Regulations, 2016 (L.I. 2247), it is illegal to sell, display, or advertise any non-tobacco product that contains images or graphics commonly associated with tobacco products . Specifically, Section 62(1)(b) prohibits the packaging or labelling of any product that resembles or is likely to be associated with tobacco .
Penalties and Enforcement
A contravention of these regulations constitutes an offence punishable by a fine of not more than 750 penalty units (approximately GH¢9,000) or a term of imprisonment of up to three years, or both . During the operation, one suspect was arrested while other traders apprehended reportedly attempted to defend the product, insisting it was “just toffee” .
The FDA has stated that the depiction and advertising of tobacco-related products are strictly prohibited under Ghanaian law, and the enforcement action forms part of its broader mandate to ensure that regulated products on the market are safe for the public .
Continued Monitoring
The Authority has assured the public that it will continue to take action against products and practices that contravene Ghana’s public health and regulatory requirements, with particular attention placed on items that may appeal to children . Further investigations into the seized products and the traders involved are expected to determine the appropriate legal action.
