FDA Warns Against Medicinal Claims For Popular Sobolo Drink

 A senior official of the Food and Drugs Authority (FDA), Dr. Martin Kusi has cautioned Ghanaians against consuming beverages promoted with claims that they can treat or cure illnesses.

Dr. Martin Kusi, speaking in a recent interview, addressed renewed attention on the sobolo associated with Stephen Adom Kyei-Duah, founder and leader of Believers Worship Centre.

He explained that Ghana’s regulatory framework draws a clear line between ordinary beverages meant for refreshment and products presented as medicines.

Sobolo is typically regarded as a drink consumed to quench thirst, Dr. Kusi said. However, its classification changes once claims are made that it can cure, treat, or prevent disease. 

Any product marketed with medicinal properties must undergo scientific evaluation and receive formal FDA approval before it can be sold or advertised that way.

"I know Sobolo is meant for quenching thirst but if anyone presents such drink (Sobolo) as medicine without passing through FDA processes, then there is an illegality there," he said. 

Dr. Kusi noted that the sobolo linked to Kyei-Duah has not been registered as a medicine.

He stated there is no scientific basis for approving it as a medicinal product and that marketing such claims without approval constitutes an illegality under Ghanaian law.

The FDA’s comments come amid public discussion of the drink, sometimes referred to in connection with spiritual or healing properties.

Officials emphasized that the warning applies broadly to any food or beverage presented with unapproved health claims.

Consumers are advised to exercise caution and rely only on products that have received proper regulatory clearance for medicinal use.