FDA certified rice distributed to SHSs – Education Ministry

The Ministry of Education has dismissed claims by Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa that expired rice was distributed to Senior High Schools under the Free SHS program.

Ablakwa alleged that rice, initially expiring in December 2023, was repackaged with misleading labels and distributed despite being unfit for consumption. He accused NAFCO and Lamens Investments Africa Limited of conspiring to supply the rice.

In response, the Ministry clarified that the Food and Drugs Authority (FDA) certified the rice as safe after re-testing its shelf life.

The FDA approved a new "Best Before" date of April 30, 2024, and permitted re-bagging to reflect this.

The Ministry emphasized that all rice distributed in February 2024 met FDA standards, while an investigation into the matter continues.

Ablakwa, however, maintains his allegations.