GSA launches national awareness and aflatoxin program

Supported by the Alliance for a Green
Revolution in Africa (AGRA) and its partners, the NASAM project aims to
catalyze and support inclusive agricultural transformation by improving food
safety thanks to an increased knowledge of aflatoxins, its impact
and management.

More than 500 food processors and farmers
Navrongo, Zuarungu and surrounding areas will be targeted during this round of
awareness meetings.

This is done in partnership with the
the Mexican Embbady in Ghana, the University of Development Studies, IITA, MOFA,
FDA, Farm Radio International, Nestlé and the National Steering Committee on
Control of aflatoxins.

Aflatoxin refers to fungal contamination,
which occurs mainly in foods such as peanuts, rice, nuts, cocoa beans,
spices and other dried foods, in regions with hot and humid climates before and
after the harvest.

Contamination with aflatoxin remains a major food item
the safety of corn and peanut-based foods.

High levels of aflatoxin present in grains
produced in Ghana resulted in post-harvest losses, with farmers selling
lower prices and the inability of Ghanaian cereals and food by-products to
to be sold on the international market.

High levels of aflatoxins also affect the health
consumers because it is known to be the cause of certain diseases.

With a focus on mitigation and prevention
Derry Dontoh of GSA to lead aflatoxin discussions in food
on the standards and management of aflatoxins.

Mr. Aldo Rosale, an expert on
International Maize and Wheat Improvement Center (CIMMYT), will present a
proven method for reducing aflatoxin content in white maize
known as nixtamalization.

The Mexican government is a partner of the
Ghana Standard Authority (GSA) to introduce nixtamalization technology in Ghana
reduce the levels of aflatoxin in corn.

Technology is a former Mexican
white corn processing technology, which has considerable potential
reduce public health and food security issues related to consumption
of corn contaminated with aflatoxins and improved economic growth.

Francis Amagloh of the University for
Development studies will focus on complementary feeding as a way to reduce
human exposure to aflatoxins.

GSA's mission is to contribute to the
growth of the industry, protect consumers and facilitate trade
standardization, metrology and conformity badessment.

GNA