The Ivorian Ministry of Trade, Industry and Handicrafts took decisive action on May 17, 2026, ordering the immediate ban and withdrawal from the market of the energy drink Galaxy Energy , produced by the company STAR FOOD ENTREPRISE CI . The reason: serious breaches of labeling and safety standards, endangering vulnerable populations.

The trigger: A citizen alert

It all started on social media. Concerned to see an energy drink being sold at a ridiculously low price and massively consumed by children, consumers raised the alarm.

Having taken up the case, the Directorate for the Repression of Fraud (DMRFCQ) conducted a thorough investigation. The conclusion is unequivocal: the product violates Ivorian Standard NI 4712:2021 .

Silent labeling regarding the product's dangers

The investigation revealed the complete absence of mandatory health warnings on the packaging, thus concealing the risks associated with the high caffeine and stimulant content:

1. No warning for at-risk populations: No mention indicating that the product is not recommended for children, pregnant or breastfeeding women.
2. Absence of the phrase "Consume in moderation": A dangerous oversight, as excess caffeine can cause heart problems, anxiety and insomnia.

Why is it dangerous?

In children, the body is very sensitive to stimulants (palpitations, restlessness). In pregnant women, caffeine crosses the placenta and can harm fetal development (low birth weight).

The government's immediate sanctions

To protect public health, the authorities have taken drastic measures:

1. Total suspension of factory production.
2. Immediate recall of all bottles across the entire distribution network (grocery stores, wholesalers, supermarkets).
3. Seizure and destruction of non-compliant stocks.
4. In-depth analyses entrusted to LANEMA and LNSP to verify whether the product's composition conceals other anomalies.

It should be noted that the company itself voluntarily stopped its machines on May 1, 2026, aware of the regulatory tightening affecting the sector since another operator was sanctioned last February.

Towards price regulation?

In order to restart its production, STAR FOOD ENTREPRISE CI will not only have to correct its labels, but also review its commercial strategy .

The ministry is demanding that the product no longer be sold at a ridiculously low price to prevent children from buying it with just their pocket money. This decision opens a crucial debate on the need to regulate energy drink prices in Ivory Coast.

Collective vigilance: How to act?

The government reiterates that consumer safety is an absolute priority and calls for everyone to be vigilant.

1. Does a product seem suspicious to you? Report it free of charge by calling the toll-free number 1343 .