FOOD TRACEABILITY SYSTEMS: PLACING FOOD SAFETY IN PROPER PERSPECTIVES
As a consumer, you must be aware where the items you by come from. You must develop a keen attitude with regards to source of produce which you place in your table. If you are not aware of the safety of food you eat, you are likely a candidate to develop food borne illnesses which have stricken some people in certain parts of the country. It is a common knowledge that even the seemingly fresh fruits and healthy veggies that you buy in the market might as well be contaminated by harmful microorganisms. What cannot be seen by your naked eye may be potentially dangerous to your health. Having said that, you must be keen and critical enough to inquire whether you are eating safe and right food from a responsible source. The need for adequate education regarding food safety is not only necessary but has become imperative. On the part of the consumers, they must be instructed that not all seemingly fresh are fit for consumption and not all that appears to be delightful to the senses are safe. Further, consumers must be given education as to how they can ascertain the safety of the produce they buy. They must be taught to patronize companies which have food traceability systems to make consumers aware of where they buy their produce. On the part of the produce industry, they must actively take part in implementing food traceability initiative in order to enhance food safety of the produce they deliver to their buyers and consumers. They must place food traceability systems in their establishments. They must remember that their business is not all about profit; it is about conscientious effort to give genuine service to the public they serve.