FDA bans alcoholic stimulant drinks from market by March 2026

The Food and Drugs Authority (FDA) has mandated all importers, manufacturers, and distributors to remove from the Ghanaian market, by the end of March 2026, mixed drinks that combine alcohol with stimulants such as caffeine, ginseng, guarana, inositol, and glucuronolactone.

In a statement released on February 25, 2026, the FDA explained that the decision was based on a post-registration review conducted under the Public Health Act, 2012, which assessed international and regional cases where countries have restricted or banned alcoholic energy drinks due to public health risks.

The authority pointed out that a review by its Food Expert Committee and Technical Advisory Committee on Food Safety and Nutrition supports scientific evidence showing that consuming drinks that combine alcohol and stimulants can lead to serious health problems and risky behaviors, particularly among youth and young adults.

Manufacturers are also required to reformulate products so that alcoholic beverages and energy drinks are sold as separate categories. Products that remain on the market after the March deadline will face regulatory sanctions, including withdrawal.

The FDA urged consumers to report any suspicious or non-compliant products, reinforcing its commitment to food safety and public health.