Banku Deaths: Lab Confirms ‘Poison’ in Corn Dough

The Food and Drugs Authority (FDA), has confirmed the presence of a toxic substance in the corn dough that was used to prepare a meal that took the lives of five persons in Akakpokope, a village in the South Tongu District of the Volta Region.

In the statement signed by the Chief Executive Officer of the FDA, Mrs. Delese Darko, “Laboratory results received…indicated the presence of Chlorpyrifos, a very toxic substance found in commonly used pesticides which, when ingested, can cause death.”

Chlorpyrifos (CPS), is an organophosphate pesticide used to kill a number of pests, including insects and worms. It is used on crops, animals, and buildings.

The World Health Organization (WHO) also describes Chlorpyrifos as hazardous to humans.

According to the FDA Boss, the findings would be forwarded to the Public Health Directorate of the Ghana Health Service (GHS) for further actions.

Per the investigation, the FDA says “it is not mandated to determine the cause of death. This can only be established after a pathological investigation.”

“The FDA would like to assure the general public that there is no cause for alarm as the corn mill from which the corn dough was sourced remains closed and the situation is under control,” the statement revealed.

Background

It was reported that the affected persons suffered severe stomach ache after consuming a popular delicacy―Banku and Okro soup, and were admitted at the Hospital, where they passed on.

Three other persons, who consumed the meal, were reported to have been in critical condition.

Following this unfortunate event, there has been increased consumer awareness of food safety.

The FDA has, however, pledged to address these concerns and to ensure authenticity of some foods on the Ghanaian market.

By: Grace Ablewor Sogbey/ [email protected]