Food is not only essential for sustenance, it is also an integral part of our culture. However, there is a growing concern around the world known as “food fraud.” Food fraud involves the intentional adulteration, mislabeling, or counterfeiting of food products, leading to economic fraud, health risks, and unfair competition. It can range from diluting olive oil with cheaper substitutes to adding harmful substances to increase the weight of seafood.
This deceptive practice of food fraud jeopardizes the integrity and safety of our food supply chain undermining consumer confidence, impacting public health, and compromising food security. Africa, with its rich biodiversity and agricultural heritage, is not immune to food fraud. The continent faces various challenges, including the illegal trade of counterfeit and substandard food products.
In fact, it is believed that Africa’s diverse agricultural sector and complex food supply chains make it vulnerable to different types of food fraud. Counterfeit products, such as imitation branded goods, are prevalent, deceiving consumers with substandard quality. Mislabeling is another common practice, where inferior or cheaper ingredients are passed off as higher-value products. There are also numerous cases of adulteration, such as diluting oils or adding unsafe substances to extend shelf life. All these pose severe health risks to consumers.
In addition, geographical origin misrepresentation is a significant concern. Products labeled as “local” or “traditional” may actually be imported, undermining local farmers’ livelihoods and the authenticity of cultural heritage. This type of fraud affects African specialty products like coffee, spices, and traditional medicines. The question is, how can everyday consumers identify food fraud, and what steps should be taken on identifying a case of food fraud?
In advanced countries, nuclear science has emerged as a powerful tool in detecting and preventing food fraud. Nuclear-Based Analytical Techniques (NBATs) are used as a powerful tool for identifying and combating food fraud. It involves using nuclear and isotopic methods to analyze the composition and authenticity of food products. Scientists have successfully used nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy and isotope analysis to boost consumer confidence. Unfortunately, this is not readily available to an everyday consumer who has to meet his daily consumption needs.
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Hence, creating food traceability systems can be of great advantage. Food traceability refers to the ability to track food products throughout the supply chain, from production to consumption. Implementing robust traceability systems can be crucial in combating food fraud in Africa. By accurately documenting and monitoring each step of the supply chain, authorities can identify and address fraudulent activities promptly.
Traceability helps prevent mislabeling and adulteration by ensuring that product information matches the actual contents. It enables the identification of the origin of food products, thereby protecting local industries and safeguarding cultural heritage. Players at every point in the food production and supply chain need to be sensitized about the importance of food traceability.
Everyday consumers, on the other hand, must master non-technical ways to spot potential food fraud and protect themselves.
For instance, scrutinizing labels is a good place to begin. Carefully reading food labels, and checking for misspellings, inconsistent information, or unusual claims is helpful. Consumers need to be cautious of products with excessive packaging, as this may be an attempt to conceal substandard quality. Also, they need to pay attention to price. If a product is significantly cheaper than others of the same kind, it may indicate potential fraud. Counterfeit or adulterated goods are often sold at unrealistically low prices.
Furthermore, observing product packaging and presentation to look for signs of tampering, such as broken seals, damaged packaging, or unusual odors is good. Consumers need to trust their senses and instincts when assessing the overall quality of products. It also helps to purchase from trusted sources only. Hence, consumers should make a habit of buying from reputable retailers, farmers’ markets, or direct from producers whenever possible.
If you suspect food fraud, report it to the relevant authorities, such as National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC). In Nigeria, NAFDAC plays a vital role in ensuring food safety and combating food fraud. Consumers can contact NAFDAC to report suspected cases and seek guidance. Also, local health departments or equivalent authorities in other African countries often have dedicated units responsible for investigating food safety issues. Consumers can be guided on reporting food fraud and taking appropriate action.
Addressing food fraud in Africa requires a comprehensive approach that includes enhancing food traceability, raising consumer awareness, and collaborating with relevant authorities. By promoting food traceability systems and encouraging consumer vigilance, we can mitigate the public health and economic risks associated with food fraud. The collective efforts of individuals, authorities, and the agricultural sector will contribute to a safer, more transparent, and sustainable food supply chain, ensuring the well-being of consumers and the preservation of African culinary heritage.
Ehi Ogwiji is a storyteller and science writer who advocates for a science-literate Africa. She aspires to be a science development communicator and leader of notable conversations around gender imbalances in STEMM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics, Medicine) in Africa and around the world. She writes from Abuja, Nigeria. Connect with her on social media @ogwijiehi.