The president of Tunisia's National Instance of Food Safety (INSSPA), Mohamed Rebhi, recently presented his country's experience in food safety at the third African Forum of Food Control Authorities (AFRAF) in Cairo, Egypt. Rebhi highlighted Tunisia's key legislative and institutional reforms, as well as the implementation of a national food safety control system. This system aims to ensure a unified and effective approach to food safety across the country. Rebhi's presentation showcased Tunisia's efforts to strengthen its food safety framework.
One of the major reforms introduced in Tunisia was the creation of the INSSPA in 2019, through law n°25. This law established a unified control authority responsible for ensuring the safety of food products. The INSSPA replaced a previous system where multiple administrative structures shared competencies. The new authority is based on a scientific approach, focusing on risk analysis and coordination among different stakeholders across the food chain. This integrated system aims to provide a more effective and efficient approach to food safety.
As part of its efforts to strengthen food safety, Tunisia has established a regional network comprising 24 regional directions that cover the entire national territory. This network aims to enhance the effectiveness of control and prevention operations, as well as harmonize decisions and procedures. The network is a key component of Tunisia's strategy to improve food safety and reduce the risks associated with food production and distribution. By having a unified system, Tunisia hopes to improve the overall safety of its food supply.
Rebhi also emphasized the importance of modernizing working methods and strengthening the technical capacities of the INSSPA. This includes the adoption of international quality standards, such as ISO 9001, ISO 17020, and ISO 17025. These standards will help improve the quality of services, enhance the competencies of control agents, and increase the reliability of laboratory analyses. By adopting these standards, Tunisia aims to align its food safety procedures with international best practices.
The participation of Tunisia in the AFRAF forum is part of a broader effort to strengthen regional cooperation and exchange experiences with African food control authorities. The forum, which brought together over 100 representatives from 25 African countries, provides a platform for countries to share knowledge and develop common mechanisms to enhance food safety. Tunisia's experience in food safety is seen as a valuable asset for the region, and its participation in the forum reflects its commitment to sharing expertise and best practices.
The AFRAF forum is an important event for African countries to address the challenges associated with food safety. With the increasing risks to food safety at both the African and international levels, it is essential for countries to work together to develop effective systems. The exchange of experiences and knowledge among African countries can help strengthen food safety frameworks and improve the overall safety of the food supply.
The presentation of Tunisia's experience in food safety at the AFRAF forum highlights the country's commitment to ensuring the safety of its food supply. By sharing its expertise and best practices, Tunisia aims to contribute to the development of effective food safety systems across Africa. The adoption of international quality standards and the establishment of a unified control system are key components of Tunisia's food safety strategy, and its participation in the forum reflects its efforts to share knowledge and expertise with other African countries.
Key points
- Tunisia shares its food safety experience with African nations at Cairo forum.
- Tunisia's food safety system is based on a scientific approach, focusing on risk analysis and coordination among stakeholders.
- The country aims to strengthen regional cooperation and exchange experiences with African food control authorities.
