In a recent workshop held in Kara, Togo, producers, processors, and traders from the Kozah region were educated on the health risks associated with using formol and potassium bromate in food production and preservation. The event, organized by the Regional Directorate of Trade and Quality Control, in collaboration with INADES-Formation and the Chamber of Trades, aimed to promote safe and competitive local products. This initiative is part of the 7th edition of the "Mois du Consommer Local" (Local Consumption Month).
The workshop sought to enhance the knowledge of agro-food chain actors on the dangers of these chemical substances, promote adherence to quality and health safety standards, and encourage the marketing of healthy and competitive local products. Discussions focused on the health consequences of using formol and potassium bromate, best practices for food processing and preservation, and control and certification requirements for local products.
Prefect of Kozah, Colonel Bonfoh Farè, emphasized that promoting local consumption must go hand-in-hand with respect for health standards to preserve population health and reinforce consumer trust. He noted that valorizing local products is a lever for job creation, income improvement, and reduced dependence on imports. According to him, the quality and competitiveness of Togolese products are assets for accessing regional markets, particularly within the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).
Director of Local Consumption, Mme Adovon Mayéka Félicité, stressed the need to balance promoting "Made in Togo" with quality requirements. She recalled the existence of national analysis, control, and certification systems, as well as the obligation for producers to submit their products to required analyses before marketing. Mme Adovon noted that local consumption promotion initiatives have contributed to over 40% increase in processors' turnover, according to official data.
The promotion of local consumption in Togo has led to a significant increase in the presence of Togolese products in large surfaces and an expansion of distribution networks through fairs and exhibitions. Mme Adovon highlighted the importance of ensuring that local products meet quality and safety standards to maintain consumer trust and confidence. The Togolese government aims to support local producers and processors in improving their products' quality and competitiveness.
The use of formol and potassium bromate in food production and preservation poses significant health risks to consumers. These chemical substances can cause serious health problems, including cancer and other diseases. The Togolese authorities' efforts to educate producers, processors, and traders on the dangers of these substances and promote safe and healthy local products are crucial in protecting public health.
The 7th edition of the "Mois du Consommer Local" in Togo aims to promote local consumption as a factor of regional integration and economic sovereignty. The event's theme, "La consommation locale, facteur d’intégration régionale et de souveraineté économique : défis et opportunités," highlights the importance of local consumption in promoting economic development and regional integration. By promoting local products and supporting local producers and processors, Togo aims to reduce its dependence on imports and increase its economic competitiveness.
Key points
- Togo's authorities warn against using formol and potassium bromate in food production to protect public health.
- The Togolese government promotes local consumption to support economic development and regional integration.
- Local consumption initiatives have led to over 40% increase in processors' turnover in Togo.
