Food contamination is a huge health concern globally, contributing to developmental delays, nutritional deficiencies, infectious and non-communicable diseases, and mental illness. Shockingly, food-borne illnesses annually claim the lives of over 400,000 people, according to a report by the World Health Organization (WHO).

Contaminated food contains harmful microorganisms and chemicals that cause illness. In Africa, the statistics are alarming as inadequate hygiene, unsafe food handling practices, and poor farming lead to the prevalence of contaminated food. Antonina Mutoro, a postdoctoral research scientist at the African Population and Health Research Center, offers insight into the causes of food contamination, preventative measures, and interventions to ensure food safety.

Food contamination can be categorized as physical, biological or chemical. Physical contamination results from foreign materials like glass, metal, hair, and even pests found in food. Biological contamination arises from bacteria, viruses and parasites, while chemical contamination emanates from toxic chemicals like pesticides and soap residue.

Poor food handling is the most common cause of food contamination. Failure to observe basic hygiene, inadequate washing of fruits and vegetables, contamination from flies, using dirty utensils, and poor storage of raw food with cooked food are the chief culprits. Reduced food safety in Africa is due to local vending practices, usage of contaminated water for cleaning purposes, poor sanitation, and low rates of innovation.

Signs of food contamination include gastroenteritis, vomiting, and stomach pains. When these become persistent, one should promptly seek medical attention. Children under the age of five, pregnant women and immunocompromised individuals are the most affected by food-borne illnesses.

To lower the chances of food contamination, one should observe basic hygiene, maintain proper food handling practices, and ensure proper sanitary conditions. Good farming practices, such as the use of clean water and correct amounts of pesticides, can also prevent contamination. Food vendors, especially those in Africa’s street food industry, need sufficient training and access to clean water and sanitation services to secure food safety.

Tackling food contamination is an urgent matter as it impairs individuals’ quality of life, compromises economic advancement and has severe health consequences. This presents an opportunity for policymakers and advocates in Africa to stress the importance of food safety and waste reduction to ensure a healthier population free from food-related illnesses.