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Health implications of serving dry ice in cocktails
The Food and Drugs Authority (FDA) has cautioned bar operators and cocktail consumers about the health risk of dry ice served in cocktails.
In a feature article copied to The Spectator, it stated that the use of dry ice in cocktails has become increasingly popular in recent years, as it added a unique and impressive visual effect to many cocktails because of the dramatic “smoking” effect it created.
“Although dry ice itself is not toxic, it can pose certain health risks if not handled properly. It is, therefore, important to educate the public on the proper handling and use of dry ice to prevent any potential safety hazards,” the article said.
The FDA noted that the revellers at night clubs, bars and other eateries must beware of the risk of carbon dioxide exposed in such enclosed places, due to the use of dry ice.
“When dry ice is added to drinks, it sublimates (i.e. moving directly from the solid state to the gaseous state), releasing carbon dioxide gas. This gas could displace oxygen in the air and create a hazardous environment, particularly in small or enclosed spaces. To prevent this risk, it is important to use dry ice in a well-ventilated area and avoid using too much dry ice at once,” it warned.
Additionally, the FDA said that bartenders must educate themselves and other staff on the proper handling of dry ice. This included wearing gloves and using tongs or other appropriate tools to handle the dry ice, as it can cause frostbite or burns if it comes into contact with skin.
The FDA further advised cocktail providers to alert their staff and customers to avoid ingesting dry ice in their drinks, which causes serious injury to their mouths and stomach walls.
The Authority informed bartenders to store dry ice in a well-ventilated, cool, and dry area, and should not be sealed in airtight containers or rooms.
“It is also important to transport dry ice in insulated containers to prevent any potential safety hazards during transport,” it added.
Moreover, the FDA, underscored the importance of labelling drinks which contained dry ice, thereby forewarning customers of the potential hazards associated with it.
“This can be done with a label or warning sign on the menu, or by informing customers directly when they order the drink,” it said.
The FDA, therefore, entreated consumers to be cautious about carbon dioxide exposure, and that the potential for frostbite and burns were the main risks associated with dry ice.
“A little usage of dry ice goes a long way when it comes to creating the “smoking” effect. Using too much dry ice can be dangerous, as it can cause an excessive amount of carbon dioxide gas inhalation,” it advised.
Dry ice is the solid form of carbon dioxide (CO2), which is a colourless, odourless gas that is present in the air we breathe. It is extremely cold, with a temperature of around -78.5°C, thus making it a great option for chilling drinks quickly.
Ghana’s parliament has marked the 2nd edition of May Day 2026 under the theme “ Welcome Home”.
It was special day meant to celebrate the invaluable support of the workforce, recognizing the commitment, resilience, and contributions of workers to institutional growth and national development.
Delivering the message on behalf of the Speaker, the 1st Deputy Speaker, Bernard Ahiafor, described the theme as very apt, appropriate, and timely, noting that Parliament is more than a workplace, it is a shared home.
He emphasized that we cannot speak about work without speaking about people, reminding everyone that the true measure of our work is the well-being of our people.
He urged that our traditional clothing become an integral part of our everyday clothing, and that our local languages must become integral to our daily lives, interwoven into education and practiced at home.
Referencing Standing Order 63, which captures the use of local language as optional in deliberations, he encouraged a renewed commitment to identity, saying it is significant that we “come home” and present who we are so future generations can inherit a story they can fully tell.
The Clerk, Mr. Ebenezer Ahumah Djietror, in his remarks commended officers for their dedication and devotion to duty, calling on them to go the extra mile and leave legacies.
Echoing the reminder that an unexamined life is not worth living, he described the event as an invitation to reconnect with our roots through cultural revival.
The Deputy Clerk, C&FMS, Dr. Gloria Sarku Kumawu, urged all not to forget their roots, the people behind the stories of ministries, industries, and the strides made both in-house and beyond.
What began last year has now become a meaningful tradition, showcasing Ghanaian heritage, fostering unity, and encouraging innovation under the principle of diversity for unity and diversity for progress, she added.
The gathering brought together leadership, public officials, and staff across all levels, along with the media, standing as a unifying platform that honored service, celebrated culture, and reaffirmed a shared commitment to national development.
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Manhyia would serve as Ghana’s unifying force …Otumfuo assures on commemoration of 27 years on the Golden Stool
The Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, last Friday celebrated his 27th enstoolment with a colourful and culture-rich ceremony at the Manhyia Palace in Kumasi, drawing a distinguished gathering of dignitaries from across Ghana and beyond.
Clad in splendid kente and adorned in rich traditional regalia, the dignitaries added colour and elegance to the occasion, as the palace grounds came alive with a vibrant display of Ghanaian culture.
Traditional drumming, dancing and symbolic rites underscored the deep-rooted heritage of the Ashanti Kingdom, captivating guests and reaffirming the value of tradition in modern society.
Speaking at a high-level Executive Gala organised by the Diaspora Affairs Office of the Office of the President in strategic partnership with the E ON 3 Group, the ‘World-Meets-in-Ghana’ gala, the Asantehene urged Ghanaians to guard against the divisive tendencies of partisan politics.
The event was to honour the Asantehene’s nearly three-decade reign under the theme ‘Advancing Peace and Sustainable Economic Development through Royal Vision’.
Otumfuo Osei Tutu II noted that such attitudes threatened the country’s long-standing values of unity, civility and brotherliness.
He assured that Manhyia would continue to serve as a unifying force for the nation.
The celebration also featured the presentation of commemorative gold coins to notable national leaders, including the President, John Dramani Mahama, former Presidents John Agyekum Kufuor and Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo as well as Dr Mahamudu Bawumia, a former Vice President in recognition of their contributions to peace and national development.
By Spectator Reporter
