Inaccurate labelling practices in probiotic products: A regulatory shortfall in Accra, Ghana

The global market for probiotics has witnessed significant growth in recent years, driven by increased interest in their health benefits. However, amidst the substantial expansion of this industry, there are still challenges regarding their quality control, especially in the aspect of labelling accuracy, hence reliability. This study evaluated the labelling accuracy and availability of probiotic products in Ayawaso West Municipality, Accra, Ghana. Using a stratified sampling design, 120 pharmacies within the Municipality were randomly selected and assessed for availability of probiotics and labels scrutinized. Visual inspection of the product labels was carried out utilizing a probiotic product label assessment checklist developed as a guide. The checklist covered information including brand details, probiotic species/strains, cell quantity, ingredients, label claims, dosage instructions and expiration dates. The checklist was based on recommended labelling requirements by the Joint Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations and World Health Organization (FAO/WHO) and the Council for Responsible Nutrition (CRN) and International Probiotics Association (IPA). The findings from this study revealed 78.3% of pharmacies in the Ayawaso West Municipality offered probiotic supplements and/or probiotic foods. Disparities in recommended label requirements and the labels of probiotic products found within the Municipality was observed. Labelling issues were more prevalent in probiotic foods than supplements. Compliance for the probiotic supplements was 74% and 44% for the probiotic food. Common issues included lack of essential information like cell quantity or CFU (colony-forming-unit), lack of statement of specific probiotic strain contained in the product, lack of scientific references supporting health claims and un-existing bacteria names. The probiotic foods occasionally stated the genus, and some did not indicate species or strain contained in the product. The study sheds light on the gaps in labelling practices in the probiotic market in Ghana and advocates for greater compliance and proper regulation of probiotics.