The Food and Drugs Authority (FDA) has directed all importers, manufacturers, and distributors of alcoholic beverages mixed with stimulants to withdraw such products from the Ghanaian market by the end of March 2026.
The affected products include drinks that combine alcohol with substances such as caffeine, inositol, glucuronolactone, ginseng, and guarana.
According to the FDA, the decision follows a comprehensive post-registration review conducted under Sections 81 and 82(a) of the Public Health Act, 2012 (Act 851). The review assessed the safety profile and regulatory compliance of these beverages, taking into account international and regional regulatory trends. In several jurisdictions, alcoholic energy drinks have been restricted, suspended, or banned due to concerns over public health.
The Authority highlighted that scientific evidence links the consumption of alcohol-stimulant mixtures to heightened health risks and adverse psychosocial behaviour, particularly among young people. Stimulant components can mask the depressant effects of alcohol, potentially leading to excessive consumption and risky conduct.
The assessment was supported by the FDA’s Food Expert Committee and the Technical Advisory Committee on Food Safety and Nutrition.
As part of the directive, manufacturers are required to reformulate their products to comply with approved standards, ensuring that alcoholic beverages and energy drinks are produced and marketed as separate categories.
The FDA warned that any product found on the market after the March 2026 deadline will face regulatory sanctions, including withdrawal.
Reaffirming its commitment to safeguarding public health, the Authority urged consumers to remain vigilant and report non-compliant or suspicious products for appropriate enforcement action.
