Chapter 5 : Sanitation and Hygiene Deficiencies as Contributing Factors in Contamination of Imported Foods

Abstract:

Understanding the inadequacy and problems of sanitation and hygiene deficiencies and their contribution to food contamination in exporting countries can lead to opportunities to reduce contamination in imported foods and to support efforts to reduce food safety problems in export partners. This chapter focuses on the sanitation and hygiene deficiencies in imported food. In general, those problems are more prominent in developing countries where food quality control is poorer than in industrialized countries. Sections in the chapter include presentation of evidence on food safety problems from imports, some cases related to hygiene and sanitation issues in exporting countries, and discussion of food safety activities in food production, especially in developing countries. Discussion about the challenges and progress suggest opportunities for developing safe food supply chains. The quality and safety of imported foods are at risk because of the food safety practices of the exporting countries and the likelihood that sanitation and hygiene deficiencies would be imported along with the food items. Food-borne pathogens can be transmitted from human excreta though improper sanitation, water sources, insects, and soil. The chapter primarily focuses on human sources and exposures. Main issues in developing countries regarding food safety controls are inadequate technology, equipment, and other infrastructure for testing product quality. A two-tiered system may be best for developing countries because improvement of an entire country’s sanitary and phytosanitary (SPS) situations may take time.