Ghana is set to explore new solutions to food system challenges. A study on the strategies is being undertaken by the Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) through its Food Research Institute (CSIR-FRI) and Water Research Institute (CSIR-FRI), under the HealthyFoodAfrica project.
The HealthyFoodAfrica is a research and innovation project aimed at creating more sustainable, equitable and resilient food systems in 10 African cities. It is being done by 18 partners in Europe and Africa, funded by the European Union (EU) Horizon 2020 programme.
Fish preservation
Dr Seth Koranteng Agyakwah, Food System Lab (FSL) Lead of CSIR, said Ghana’s project was focused on developing the right systems to promote fish preservation and unearth other uses for unused fish parts. The strategy aims to use inedible parts of tilapia fish for alternative protein and oil sources for consumption and industrial usage.
“Currently, improper fish handling, lack of ready market for some fish types, transportation difficulties, among others, affect the returns on investments of fish farmers, hence the need to explore various sustainable and safe means of preservation. Improved post-harvest technologies was critical in ensuring food nutrition and reduce food waste. It is critical that researchers and scientists contribute towards ensuring healthy foods, good nutrition and healthy living for the populace.
As part of efforts to improve the various value chains, the project would also provide support to farmers through extension officers to implement new technologies. The project would also train Ghanaian fish farmers on how to undertake profitable fish production through resilient and nutritious agri-food chains.
 through its Food Research Institute (CSIR-FRI) and Water Research Institute (CSIR-FRI), under the HealthyFoodAfrica project.){kind=link}