The Food and Drugs Authority (FDA) has declared that, beginning February 1, 2026, any food service establishment operating without a valid Food Hygiene Permit will be closed down. This directive applies to all providers in the sector, including restaurants, lounges, hotels, chop bars, snack bars, food vans, bakeries, event caterers, online food businesses, as well as canteens in schools, hospitals, and offices.
The enforcement is grounded in Section 130(1) of the Public Health Act, 2012 (Act 851), which prohibits the manufacture, sale, supply, or storage of regulated products in unregistered premises. In a notice issued on February 1, the FDA said, “Food and Drugs Authority (FDA) wishes to inform the general public that, effective 1st February 2026. All food service establishments operating without a valid Food Hygiene Permit will be closed down.”
The Authority said affected establishments will remain closed until they regularise their operations and obtain the required permit. The FDA urged all food operators to take immediate steps to comply with the directive in the interest of public health and safety, and encouraged the public and food business operators to contact the Authority through its official channels for further enquiries.
Source: Leticia Osei
