Food saftey: an examination of the potential impact on the economies of countries of the Caribbean Community [abstract]

ABSTRACT

Food safety pertains to the prevention, reduction or elimination of the risk of ill-health as a result of the consumption of foods whether fresh or processed, obtained through the domestic market or by international trade. Food saftey issues therefore impact on agricultural production and trade, as well as on the manufacture of processed foods and on the preparation and service of meals, whether these be in a hotel/restaurant environment or by itinerant street vendors. Agricultural production, trade and tourism are together significant contributors to the output of the open economies of the countries of the Caribbean Community. The discussion examines the findings of a recent assessment of the food safety status of Caribbean Community (CARICOM) Member States, which focussed on food safety in respect of plant, animal and human health systems in the various countries. The economic structure of selected countries is highlighted together with an indication of the trends in trade. The findings of the food safety assessment are then reviewed in the context of their possible impact on the economic output of the countries. The analysis showed that agricultural production and trade play a critical role in the economic output of many CARICOM States, Through their contribution to export earnings as well as employment. Tourism is also important in this regard. Inadequate attention to food safety issues can result in loss of market share either through a shift in purchasing patterns as experienced by other countries, or through detention by the regulatory agency of the importing country. Weak food safety policies could also jeopardize the tourism sector. Improvements in the food safety system and its infrastructure would serve to enhance the earning potential of the agricultural and tourism sectors and this should lead to greater economic output from those sectors. (AU)