Free Access | 2024-04-12

Does Uganda’s food policy environment respond to the food safety needs of the population?

Authors/Editors: Madina M. Guloba (PhD) ,  Blessing Atwine ,  Pauline Nakitende

Abstract:

Food safety involves preventive practices at any point in food-related operations, such as receiving, storing, processing, handling, and distributing. The Ugandan government has, over the years, been intensifying efforts to improve the standard of food safety and food safety practices with little success, especially regarding implementation. The food supply chain of Uganda has seen several challenges, including chemical substances of public health concern that have been detected in food and food products in the market. Given these challenges, this brief examines the gaps in the current regulatory environment and recommends establishing an independent Food Authority. It also recommends reviewing the 1964 Food and Drugs Act to cater to technological changes and restore hygiene and sanitary inspections—to ensure an enhanced food safety environment