Cape Verde's National Health Institute Advocates Integrated Approach to Food Chemical Contaminants
The National Health Institute (INSP) of Cape Verde is calling for a comprehensive strategy to address chemical contaminants, pesticides, and toxic substances in food, recognizing that public health extends beyond infectious diseases. Maria da Luz Lima, president of INSP, emphasized the need to consider population exposure to these harmful substances. Speaking at a two-day specialized training event in Praia focused on toxicological risk assessment and contaminants, Lima highlighted the goal of enhancing the technical skills of professionals involved in food safety and public health protection. The training aims to equip technicians and institutions to evaluate risks associated with contaminants throughout the food chain, including fishery products, thereby strengthening surveillance systems. Beyond technical training, the project includes studies to assess contaminant levels in both locally produced and imported foods. Previous research indicated higher contaminant levels in imported products, though a new assessment is underway. INSP is collaborating with institutions in the Canary Islands to analyze collected food samples. While it is premature to classify the country's risk level, existing studies suggest low concentrations of contaminants in national products. However, INSP urges control over pesticide use in agriculture and promotes natural food production and consumption to reduce public exposure to harmful substances. INSP clarifies that food quality inspection is the responsibility of other sanitary inspection entities, with INSP providing scientific evidence for decision-making. This initiative is part of the ALSEMAC Project, an international cooperation effort co-financed by the Interreg MAC 2021-2027 Programme, involving institutions from Macaronesia and West African countries like Ghana and Ivory Coast, aiming to promote safe, healthy, and sustainable food production and consumption.
The INSP's push for an integrated approach to food contaminants underscores a critical public health challenge amplified by globalized food systems. While national products show lower contaminant levels, the reliance on imports and agricultural pesticide use necessitate robust regulatory frameworks and transparent supply chains. The ALSEMAC project's focus on circular economy principles and international cooperation offers a potential pathway to harmonize safety standards and foster sustainable food practices across the Macaronesia and West Africa regions. Future efforts should prioritize continuous monitoring, public education on food choices, and strengthening the capacity of national regulatory bodies to ensure long-term food safety and public well-being in the face of evolving chemical risks.
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