What's Really In Your Food?
Just because a product was safe the last time you purchased does not mean the ingredients have stayed the same. New raw materials and additives used may cause allergic reactions or serious medical complications.
Food safety alerts have jollied the airwaves globally in recent times yet Ghana falls short in terms of a rigorous food safety system that promotes healthy eating. The Ghana Standards Authority and Food and Drugs Authority have a difficult task to ensure Ghanaians enjoy wholesome food. Unlike inferior fuel which affects vehicle performance, food poisoning has killed a lot of people .
Some key indicators to consider before buying processed foodstuff are:
1. Production and expiry dates/best before
2. Allergen labelling
3. Preservatives
4. Ingredients (listed in descending order per quantity added)
5. Storage conditions
6. Supplier's address and contact name
The common food allergens are peanuts, crustaceans, milk, wheat, soy, fish, eggs, spices and herbs. According to the Food and Drugs Authority, these food groups account for about 90% of all food allergies and must be declared on any edible material.
Legitimate labelling of raw and processed food safeguards consumer health and safety. Over 90% of Ghanaians do not have access to well labeled foodstuff because of bargains made in traditional (table-top) markets. The malls and supermarkets have been credible custodians of product labelling and categorization although it comes with hefty price tags.
Despite the vehement adherence to FDA regulations by local producers, some clever foreign industries have found a bigger market in Ghana due to their cheaper but quality products. Consumers on the other hand have developed taste buds in synergy with their account balance–the cheaper, the better
It is surprising to find people who risk their lives eating low quality meals. You do not have to eat more to live longer;You can reach old age by eating nutritious meals, free of carcinogens and other biological contaminants.
When you grill, steam or fry chicken on the market today, you only scent the different stages of energy transfer; fire, water, oil and steam! . Inasmuch as we crave organic food, food safety awareness in Ghana has hit a new low. Uninformed consumers are being tested with nouveau biological and chemical substances that may be toxic.
Ultimately, the accumulation of trace elements from agrochemicals and cancer causing growth boosters is detrimental to human health. A tropical region with an unpleasant average life expectancy, must pay attention to the quality of food and lifestyle adaptations that promotes longevity.
As consumers, we ought to make responsible decisions to stay healthy. The limitation of Food and Drugs Authority
should not put our lives at risk. You can avoid exposure to harmful substances if you pay attention to detail and maintain good hygiene standards.
Our health is what we eat, cheap could be quality but that is not always the case. The value of food is a valuation of your life. Buy organic groceries, use clean energy and enjoy a healthy meal.
Do you want to volunteer as a Food Safety Ambassador in your COMMUNITY?
Send your name, phone number and location to
our.gheco@gmail.com or call +233268202728