In a significant public health alert, the Food and Drugs Authority (FDA) has warned consumers against two alcoholic beverages—Kings Orange Flavoured Liqueur and Jupiter 1990—citing their alarming content of marijuana extracts. This announcement, made via a press release on May 18, 2025, raised concerns about the safety and legality of these products, leading to heightened scrutiny of their production processes.
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The FDA's investigation revealed that both beverages are unregistered and therefore not deemed safe for public consumption. They have been linked to FAMUDE Catering Services, a facility operating without the necessary licenses in the Ashanti Region. "These alcoholic products pose significant health risks and are believed to be manufactured illegally," the FDA emphasized in its announcement.
The agency's concerns were initially sparked by prior inspections. Kings Orange Flavoured Liqueur had previously been registered in 2022, but a routine market surveillance in July 2023 indicated a disturbing change; laboratory tests detected traces of cannabis in the drink. This discovery prompted immediate action, and the FDA responded decisively by shutting down FAMUDE Catering Services, revoking their operating license, and referring the case to the Suntresu District Police for further investigation and possible prosecution.
However, despite these efforts, the situation remained tense. In April 2025, the FDA received credible reports that Kings Orange Flavoured Liqueur was still making its way into Koforidua, sparking fears that the distribution of this unregulated product had not ceased. Follow-up investigations unveiled a new, unauthorized production site believed to be part of the same illicit operation, raising alarms over the persistence of this illegal trade.
The FDA is not addressing this issue in isolation. The authority is collaborating with the Drug Law Enforcement Unit (DLEU) of the Ghana Police Service and the Narcotics Control Commission (NACOC) to tackle this problem more effectively. Together, they aim to monitor supply chains, contain the distribution, and ultimately dismantle the illegal production network that has put public health at risk.
“We are taking this situation very seriously,” stated an FDA spokesperson during an interview. “The presence of cannabis in these drinks not only violates safety regulations but poses a significant health threat to consumers, particularly among young adults who may unwittingly consume these products.”
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The message from the FDA is clear: consumers should remain vigilant and refrain from purchasing or consuming Kings Orange Flavoured Liqueur and Jupiter 1990. They are encouraged to report any known sell points to the FDA or local authorities, contributing to a broader effort to eliminate unsafe products from the market.
In a rapidly evolving scenario where consumer safety is paramount, the FDA's proactive measures reflect a commitment to public health. The ongoing investigation into FAMUDE Catering Services and its operations underscores the authorities’ determination to keep dangerous substances out of the hands of unsuspecting consumers. As this story develops, residents and patrons are urged to remain informed and exercise caution in their beverage choices.