The Food and Drugs Authority (FDA) has dismissed claims circulating on social media that a hazardous substance known as “akeshaa parazone” is being used in the preparation of foods such as waakye, okro and “ayoyo” soup.
In a statement issued on January 28, 2026, the FDA said investigations and routine market surveillance have established that the substance commonly used by food vendors is sodium carbonate, locally known as soda ash or “light,” which is a globally recognised and approved food additive for specific applications.
According to the Authority, sodium carbonate is used in food preparation to enhance texture and colour, increase the sliminess of okro and ayoyo, and help tenderise foods such as meat or beans. It stressed that the substance is not a cleaning powder or bleach.
The FDA explained that the confusion stems from the similarity in appearance between soda ash and bleach, locally referred to as “akeshaa parazone,” as both are white powders.
However, it noted that the two substances are fundamentally different. While sodium carbonate is safe for consumption when used appropriately, bleach is toxic and corrosive and must never be used in food preparation.
“Sodium carbonate enhances the texture and colour of foods by altering pH levels. It increases the sliminess of okro and “ayoyo” and helps tenderise other foods such as meat or beans in “waakye.” The critical difference While sodium carbonate (soda ash light) and bleach (akeshaa parazone) may look similar, as both are white Powders. They are fundamentally different.
“Sodium carbonate is odourless with a salty taste and is safe for consumption as an additive. Bleach (akeshaa parazone) on the other hand, has a strong, pungent and toxic odour, and may cause severe health damage if ingested. Including burning and organ damage. It can be fatal. Bleach must never be used in food,” the statement said.
The Authority warned that bleach consumption can cause severe health damage, including burning of the mouth and throat and organ damage, and could be fatal.
The FDA said it is taking steps to protect public health and safety, including continuous market sensitisation and consumer education on the safe use of regulated products, as well as enforcing proper labelling of all regulated products with marketing authorisation.
It also urged the public to report any suspicious practices or products through its offices nationwide, its website, or official social media platforms and hotlines.
