Vice President of Fish Processors Association urges members to prioritise high quality and security of their enterprise
Madam Theresa Freeman, an authorized fish processor and Vice President of the National Fisheries and Processing Trade Association (NAFPTA), has highlighted the significance of the Safe Fish Certificate.
She warned fellow fishmongers towards shopping for low-quality fish, emphasizing that this apply jeopardizes shopper well being and damages their skilled popularity.
Madam Freeman urged fellow fish processors to enroll in protected certification packages, which might improve the marketability of their merchandise to high-profile firms and institutions. By acquiring these certifications, fish processors can exhibit their dedication to high quality and security, gaining a aggressive edge out there and boosting shopper confidence.
Madam Theresa Freeman emphasised the importance 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 burdened.
As a part of a market marketing campaign selling protected fish dealing with 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 via Feed the Future, goals to coach fish sellers on correct dealing with and storage methods to make sure shopper security.
The program introduced collectively key stakeholders, together with the Fisheries Commission, STMA Environmental Health and Department, and Sekondi Market Queens, to advertise a unified method to bettering fish dealing with practices within the area. By working collectively, these organizations hope to create a safer and extra sustainable meals provide chain for shoppers.
Patrick Tawiah, an officer from the Fisheries Commission, took the chance to coach the fishmongers on the Safe Fish Licensing Scheme, also called the Safe Fish Certificate.
He emphasised 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 mentioned.
By empowering fishmongers with this data, the Safe Fish Certificate program seeks to advertise a tradition of meals security and high quality within the fishing trade.
Bernard, a consultant from the Sekondi-Takoradi Metropolitan Assembly’s Environmental Health and Safety Department, emphasised the significance of cleanliness within the fish promoting enterprise. He urged fish sellers to prioritize hygiene to make sure the security and high quality of their merchandise.
“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 suggested.
Fish sellers at Sekondi Market counseled Connect FM and the Western Regional Chapter of the Ghana Journalists Association (GJA) for organizing such an educative program on protected fish practices. The distributors have pledged to implement the information gained from this system to enhance their each day operations.
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