The Food and Drugs Authority (FDA) has issued an urgent public health alert following the discovery of a dangerous and unregistered substance being sold under the name “Sukudai.”
The product, which has been marketed in the Kumasi metropolis as a “heart-cleansing” remedy, has been found through laboratory testing to contain high levels of chloroform, a toxic chemical with serious health consequences.
The alert was issued on Friday, March 13, 2026, after viral videos circulated on social media showing the liquid dissolving Styrofoam plates. According to regulators, the phenomenon is linked to the strong solvent properties of chloroform.
Toxic Chemical Behind the Product
The FDA explained that chloroform was historically used as a surgical anaesthetic but was discontinued decades ago due to its severe toxicity and its association with cancer.
As a colourless liquid with a deceptively sweet taste, chloroform can be quickly absorbed by the body through inhalation or ingestion, posing serious health risks to consumers.
The authority warns that people who consume the “Sukudai” product may face immediate dangers including:
- Organ Failure: Severe damage to the liver and kidneys
- Respiratory Distress: Breathing difficulties and heavy sedation
- Neurological Effects: Drowsiness, unconsciousness, and in extreme cases, death
KNUST Researchers Explain Styrofoam Reaction
Researchers from the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST) have also conducted a parallel investigation into the viral demonstration where the liquid melts Styrofoam.
According to the researchers, chloroform acts as a powerful solvent capable of dissolving polystyrene, the material used to produce Styrofoam plates.
Some vendors have used this demonstration to falsely claim that the product can “melt away” fat or clear heart blockages in the human body.
However, scientists from KNUST have clarified that this claim is scientifically impossible, explaining that the chemical simply dissolves plastic and would instead have destructive and corrosive effects on human tissues.
FDA Moves to Arrest Distributors
In response to the growing public health threat, the FDA has begun enforcement operations in collaboration with National Security and the Ghana Police Service to track down producers and distributors of the illegal tonic.
Authorities have warned that anyone caught selling or distributing the unregistered product will face arrest and prosecution.
The FDA has urged the public to immediately stop using any product labelled “Sukudai” or any unlabelled liquid marketed as a heart-cleansing remedy, especially those sold in the Kumasi area.
Consumers are encouraged to report suspicious vendors through the FDA complaint channels or contact the authority via its hotlines: 0551112224 / 0551112225.
Wider Regulatory Crackdown
The warning comes amid a broader regulatory push by the FDA to protect public health. The authority is currently enforcing a nationwide recall of alcoholic energy drinks containing stimulants such as caffeine and ginseng, with manufacturers given until March 31, 2026 to comply.
Regulators say the crackdown forms part of ongoing efforts to remove dangerous and unapproved products from the Ghanaian market and safeguard consumers from harmful substances.
