The Zambia Compulsory Standards Agency (ZCSA) has stressed that food safety is non-negotiable in protecting the public from foodborne illnesses that can lead to long-term health problems and, in severe cases, death.
In Facebook post under its “With Your Safety in Mind” campaign, ZCSA said ensuring food safety minimizes risks of contamination from harmful germs, viruses, and poisonous chemicals.
“Food safety maintains consumer confidence in the food supply. It also supports economic growth and stability by reducing food waste and loss, while ensuring compliance with laws and standards,” the agency stated.
ZCSA emphasized that all food products must be stored in clean facilities that pose no risk of contamination or deterioration.
The agency further underscored the importance of correct labelling before products are dispatched to the market.
Labels, it said, must include allergen information, special storage instructions, best-before dates, and batch numbers to enable consumers to make informed choices.
“Some products may contain allergens or require special storage conditions to avoid deterioration, which may result in a food safety concern,” ZCSA noted.
To enforce compliance, ZCSA conducts regular inspections to ensure manufacturers and traders adhere to set regulations and compulsory standards.
Francis Chipalo