Perspectives of Food Safety Challenges of Selected Food Commodities in Sub-Saharan Africa: A Review

Abstract

This paper gives some perspectives on the food safety challenges of countries in Sub-Saharan Africa (SSA) on health, trade and the economy as well as food safety issues associated with selected food commodities. Sector-specific challenges affecting the horticulture, cereals and grain legumes, poultry, dairy and aquaculture in the SSA region are highlighted. It is well understood that SSA countries suffer enormous losses in trade and ultimately overall Gross Domestic Product (GDP) as well as disease burden due to unsafe food. In summarising the overall narration on these aspects, the paper finally argues that in addressing these challenges to facilitate trade and improve public health, a multi-sectoral and integrated approach involving all the relevant stakeholders is required.