High Lead Levels Found in “American” Paints Sold in Ghana

An investigation has uncovered dangerously high levels of lead in paints sold in Ghana, including products marketed as “American paints.” A study found that many samples exceeded the safe limit for lead, exposing sensitive populations to severe health risks. Regulatory confusion and smuggling threats complicate enforcement of safety standards.

Recent investigations have shed light on alarming levels of lead in paints marketed as “American” in Ghana. A study by American researchers in collaboration with local regulatory bodies found that out of 46 analyzed samples, 15 contained lead levels exceeding the acceptable limit of 90 parts per million (ppm). This increase is significant as only 6 out of 59 samples exceeded safe levels in 2023; some paints have now shown lead content as high as 200,000 ppm.

Consumption of these hazardous paints poses serious risks, especially to pregnant women and children, who may suffer from severe health issues such as irreversible brain damage. Although these paints are cheaper than local alternatives, they are not certified by the Ghana Standards Authority, leading to public safety concerns. The CEO of the Authority, Prof. Alex Dodoo, emphasizes that these paints lack regulation, highlighting a critical oversight issue.

The situation is complicated by a regulatory conflict between the Ghana Standards Authority and the Food and Drugs Authority (FDA), with both agencies denying jurisdiction over these imports. This lack of regulatory coordination hampers enforcement of safety standards, placing consumers at risk. Freight forwarders have reported instances where importers collaborate with customs officials to smuggle non-compliant paints, evading statutory duties and scrutiny.

Officials like Jessica Nkansah from the Ghana Standards Authority have raised alarms about the processing conditions of these paints. While some local manufacturers are improving lead standards, the influx of uncertified imports poses a significant public safety threat. The marketing of these paints as “American” is misleading, preying on consumer perceptions of quality but delivering harmful products instead.

The investigation into lead levels in paints sold in Ghana reveals critical health risks, particularly for vulnerable populations like children and pregnant women. The absence of regulation by the Ghana Standards Authority and the complicated jurisdictional issues with the FDA have created a gap in oversight, allowing hazardous, lead-laden paints to flood the market unchecked. Urgent action is needed to protect public health and ensure safety standards are enforced regarding imported paints.

Original Source: www.myjoyonline.com