GSS survey reveals wide variations in non-standard food measurements across Ghana
Ghana Statistical Service (GSS) released its first-ever Non-Standard Units Survey (NSUS) on Tuesday, July 7, 2026, revealing that non-standard measurement units like olonka, cups, buckets, bundles, and heaps are widely used in Ghana's food markets and households, despite significant differences in their actual weights across the country. Government Statistician Dr. Alhassan Iddrisu stated that the survey provides Ghana's first nationally representative data on the use of non-standard food measurement units, offering a stronger basis for producing official statistics.
The survey found that the same measurement unit often represents different weights depending on the region, creating inconsistencies in food pricing, agricultural statistics, and household consumption estimates. Household food measurements also vary considerably, even with seemingly standard containers. At the farmgate level, differences in container sizes and filling methods contribute to inconsistencies. However, container-based liquid commodities, such as palm oil, showed greater consistency in measurements than solid food items. To address this, the GSS has developed national conversion factors for major food commodities, allowing local measurement units to be converted into kilograms and litres. These conversion factors are expected to improve the accuracy of the Consumer Price Index (CPI), agricultural production statistics, and household consumption data, while enhancing evidence-based policymaking.
Quick Summary
The Ghana Statistical Service (GSS) has released its first-ever Non-Standard Units Survey (NSUS) revealing widespread use of non-standard food
Summary - read the full story for complete context.

Image: Adom Online
GhanaFront aggregates news from trusted sources. Click to read the original article.
Keywords
Explore related tagsMore from Adom Online
Related Stories
More from Business & Economy

MDA financial irregularities surge 156% to GH¢5.27bn in 2025 - Auditor-General
A new report from the Auditor-General reveals a dramatic surge in financial irregularities across government MDAs. What does this mean for public
5h ago•4 min read

Tony Elumelu retires as UBA Group Chairman after 12 years; Emmanuel Nnorom takes over
A leadership change is on the horizon for UBA as its long-serving Group Chairman prepares to step down, prompting questions about the bank's future
7h ago•2 min read

GTA engages Tema stakeholders on new draft regulations, GTIS, tourism levy
The Ghana Tourism Authority is engaging with industry players in Tema to discuss significant changes that could reshape the future of tourism in
10h ago•3 min read

Ecobank joins The Build Project as official financing partner
Discover how this new partnership will transform the landscape of home construction and renovation financing in Ghana.
11h ago•2 min read





