The COVID-19 pandemic and its implications for food safety in East Africa

ABSTRACT

This study explored how response to COVID-19, especially the implementation of mitigation measures, might have impacted on food safety in East Africa. The work was implemented in the framework of an ongoing food safety project in East Africa that was being led by the International Livestock Research Institute (ILRI). Data were collected in November and December 2020 through telephone and online interviews and using a short guide developed by the project. Food safety experts (n = 25) based in countries within East Africa and who had engaged with ILRI in previous projects were asked to participate in the study. In terms of impact, livestock was ranked as the most affected value chain (60%;15/25), followed by vegetables and fruits (32%) and finally fish (8%). For livestock products, meat (62%), dairy (38%) and poultry (12%) were the most affected by the pandemic. The cereals value chain was perceived to be the least affected (68%). As regards to regulation, staff were few and had to work in shifts. Market surveillance programs were also affected. Food safety concerns associated with bulk purchases (aflatoxins, access to expired products etc.) were reported. Gaps in the implementation of the One Health approach were observed. COVID-19 has significantly impacted food systems, not only in terms of production and access but also in terms of quality and safety of available food products. Interventions to address future pandemics will need to consider the negative impacts arising from enforcement of measures to mitigate diseases of public health importance. A One Health approach would facilitate this.