8407 food handlers in the Accra Metropolitan Assembly (AMA) underwent mandatory medical health screening in 2023 to ensure safe and hygienic food for public consumption.
Of the number, 6240 were females while 2167 were males all from the hospitality industries, restaurants, drinking and chop bars.
The data contained in the 2023 Annual Report of the Public Health Department of the AMA revealed that 6014 females and 1121 males out of the total number screened were found fit and issued suitability health and safety certificates.
Speaking to the report, the Head of Public Affairs at the AMA, Gilbert Nii Ankrah said out of the number screened 5287 were new applicants while 3118 were renewals adding that the screenings included education sessions on proper hygiene practices, nutrition, and general health awareness and were designed to cover a range of health parameters, including communicable diseases, hygiene-related illnesses, and overall physical fitness among others.
He explained that the screening exercise was carried out to among other things maintain high standards in the food industry, and enhance public confidence by reducing potential health risks associated with food consumption.