Madam Theresa Freeman, a certified fish processor and Vice President of the National Fisheries and Processing Trade Association (NAFPTA), has highlighted the importance of the Safe Fish Certificate.
She warned fellow fishmongers against buying low-quality fish, emphasizing that this practice jeopardizes consumer health and damages their professional reputation.
Madam Freeman urged fellow fish processors to enroll in safe certification programs, which can enhance the marketability of their products to high-profile companies and establishments. By obtaining these certifications, fish processors can demonstrate their commitment to quality and safety, gaining a competitive edge in the market and boosting consumer confidence.
Madam Theresa Freeman emphasized the significance of the Safe Fish Certificate.
“Let’s prioritize quality and safety in our business,” she urged. “By doing so, we can protect public health, maintain customer trust, and contribute to a more sustainable fishing industry.”
“Having this certification opens up lucrative opportunities for us to supply our fish to high-profile companies and institutions. This not only increases our revenue potential but also enhances our reputation as reliable and quality-driven fish suppliers,” she stressed.
As part of a market campaign promoting safe fish handling practices, Media General’s Takoradi-based Connect FM, in collaboration with the Western Regional Chapter of the Ghana Journalists Association, has organized a sensitization program at Sekondi Market.
This initiative, supported by USAID through Feed the Future, aims to educate fish sellers on proper handling and storage techniques to ensure consumer safety.
The program brought together key stakeholders, including the Fisheries Commission, STMA Environmental Health and Department, and Sekondi Market Queens, to promote a unified approach to improving fish handling practices in the region. By working together, these organizations hope to create a safer and more sustainable food supply chain for consumers.
Patrick Tawiah, an officer from the Fisheries Commission, took the opportunity to educate the fishmongers on the Safe Fish Licensing Scheme, also known as the Safe Fish Certificate.
He emphasized that. “The Safe Fish Certificate aims to ensure that the fish we consume are safe and free from health risks. To achieve this, the primary focus is on educating fishermen and fishmongers in coastal communities on the importance of cleanliness in their fishing and business practices.”
“Notably, this certification program is free for all participants, and it includes comprehensive training on best practices for fish handling, storage, and marketing. Specifically, the training covers essential topics such as: Maintaining cleanliness in fish shelters and preparation areas, Preparing and handling fish in a secure and sanitary manner and Effective marketing strategies for fish products among others,” he said.
By empowering fishmongers with this knowledge, the Safe Fish Certificate program seeks to promote a culture of food safety and quality in the fishing industry.
Bernard, a representative from the Sekondi-Takoradi Metropolitan Assembly’s Environmental Health and Safety Department, emphasized the importance of cleanliness in the fish selling business. He urged fish sellers to prioritize hygiene to ensure the safety and quality of their products.
“I’ve noticed that many of you fish sellers have a bad habit of not washing the fish after buying them from the shore. Instead, you directly smoke them, which is unacceptable. When you bring the fish home, please ensure you wash them with clean water, not seawater, at least two to three times to make them cleaner.”
“As you’re aware, fish attract houseflies, so it’s essential to cover them to prevent contamination. Additionally, please regularly change your smoke nets or clean them frequently.”
“We’re also appealing to you fishmongers to maintain good personal hygiene. Keep your fingernails clean and short, wear aprons, and use hair covers or nets to prevent hair from getting into the fish. Remove cobwebs from your kitchen or shed, and at the market, take steps to prevent cockroaches. By following these simple practices, you’ll significantly improve the quality and safety of your fish products,” he advised.
Fish sellers at Sekondi Market commended Connect FM and the Western Regional Chapter of the Ghana Journalists Association (GJA) for organizing such an educative program on safe fish practices. The vendors have pledged to implement the knowledge gained from the program to improve their daily operations.
