Popular ‘dadesen’ pots could cause cancer, kidney failure – FDA warns

The Eastern Regional Manager of the Food and Drugs Authority (FDA), Anita Owusu-Kuffour, has called for an immediate ban on locally made cooking pots popularly known as “Dadesen.”

She said FDA investigations had detected dangerous levels of lead used in the production of the pots, warning that the contamination poses serious health risks to consumers

Madam Owusu-Kuffour made the call during a stakeholder engagement on heavy metal contamination in cereal-legume mixes held in Somanya, in the Yilo Krobo Municipality of the Eastern Region.

She explained that FDA surveillance revealed that lead, a toxic heavy metal, is often added during the manufacturing process of “Dadesen” pots to soften the metal and ease moulding.

However, this practice, she cautioned, exposes users to severe health conditions such as cancer, kidney failure, and Parkinson’s disease.

“When they are making the pots, the metal becomes hard, so they add lead to soften it. The sad part is that most local manufacturers have no idea about the health implications,” she said. “We are, therefore, advising the public to stop using ‘Dadesen’ that contain lead.”

When asked how consumers could identify lead-contaminated pots, Madam Owusu-Kuffour said the best solution is for artisans to stop using lead entirely and adopt safer alternatives, such as stainless steel for cookware production.

She also cautioned against the careless use of nonstick cookware, warning that once the protective coating begins to wear off, it can release toxic chemicals and heavy metals into food.

“If the coating wears off, you are exposing yourself to serious health risks, including cancer, because some of these coatings contain heavy metals,” she explained.

Madam Owusu-Kuffour further noted that some materials used in manufacturing kitchen utensils are questionable and can become harmful when scratched or corroded, as chemicals may leach into food and enter the bloodstream, leading to chronic illnesses.

“A good-quality stainless steel product can serve both purposes—safety and durability,” she said.

The FDA Regional Manager emphasised that ensuring food safety requires collective action among producers, regulators, and consumers.

“As science and technology improve, it is important for all of us to adapt and move away from harmful practices to protect public health,” she added.

Source: GNA