GHANA – The Ministry of Health in Ghana has raised alarm over poor meat handling practices, stressing on the risks of food poisoning and other health issues.
Speaking during a stakeholder meeting to address findings on animal welfare, food safety, and the one-health approach, Dr. Hafez Adam Taher, the Acting Director of Technical Coordination, emphasized the urgent need for training slaughterhouse operators and stakeholders in proper procedures.
He stressed the involvement of environmental health, family health, animal health officials, slaughterhouse owners, and butchers in ensuring compliance with food quality and safety protocols.
Professor Benjamin Emikpe from the School of Veterinary Medicine at the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST) reiterated the importance of certifying slaughterhouses and implementing routine inspections.
He pointed to the need for facility upgrades, modern equipment, and practical training for slaughterhouse workers to improve meat preservation and handling processes.
The Ministry and stakeholders have expressed their commitment to adopting measures to enhance public health and food safety standards across the country.
This discussion comes as Ghana’s meat market is projected to generate US$6.13 billion in revenue by 2025, with an annual growth rate of 9.38% from 2025 to 2029.
Globally, China is expected to lead the sector with an estimated $286 billion in revenue by 2025.
Per capita revenue in Ghana’s meat market is projected to reach US$174.70 in 2025, with a market volume of 627 million kilograms by 2029.
Average individual consumption is expected to be 16.3 kilograms per year by 2025.
Despite growth prospects, concerns about meat safety remain pressing.
A study by Frederick Adzitey and colleagues revealed that 70% of meat sellers in Ghana sourced products from abattoirs, while 30% engaged in backyard slaughter, which lacks veterinary inspection and poses significant health risks.
Additionally, 48% of meat vendors sold products on open tables exposed to contaminants like dust, flies, and vehicle emissions, with no temperature control for preservation.
Sign up HERE to receive our email newsletters with the latest news and insights from Africa and around the world, and follow us on our WhatsApp channel for updates.