Mitigating contamination in agricultural supply chain

New Delhi: What is the origin of the current food contamination problem in Bengaluru?

The current challenges of food contamination in Bangalore, and across various metropolitan areas, arise from multiple sources within the food supply chain. Input contamination is a significant concern, particularly regarding the use of contaminated soil and water in cultivation. The presence of pollutants in irrigation water or soil, often originating from industrial effluents or sewage water, can lead to the manifestation of harmful substances in fruits and vegetables.

Pesticides play a crucial role in agricultural practices when it comes to countering pests and not-so-optimal environmental conditions, but issues arise when their usage exceeds permissible limits or when farmers employ unscientific methods. The drive to meet market demands and maximize yields can push farmers to take shortcuts, compromising the safety of the produce and contributing to contamination.

Contamination is notable in greens, which are highly perishable and usually cultivated close to urban centers. The water used for their cultivation is often compromised, with sewage water and industrial effluents posing a significant risk.

In the case of fruits, post-harvest handling processes are critical. Fruits, often grown in specific agro-climatic zones far from demand centers, may undergo unscientific treatments during handling to make them last for the long distance transportation or make them ready for consumption.

The concern of usage of carbide for ripening or the use of unsafe wax for apples is issues that bubble to the top of consumer mind every season. Addressing these contamination challenges requires a holistic approach encompassing improved agricultural practices, stringent monitoring of pesticide use, and enhanced post-harvest handling protocols.

What measures can be implemented to address this contamination issue?

Mitigating contamination within the agricultural supply chain demands a nuanced strategy that takes into account the diverse motivations and challenges encountered by various stakeholders. Farmers often resort to short-term measures such as excessive chemical use or neglecting input quality due to uncertainties in the profit and loss of a crop cycle. To address this, there is a need for comprehensive support systems that provide farmers with certainty regarding yields, input costs, and market access. Financial incentives, education on sustainable farming practices, and improved market linkages can encourage farmers to prioritize crop quality over short-term gains.

Many players in the supply chain focus on minimizing wastage and handling damages, often neglecting issues like contamination. To change this, there should be a shift towards more value-adding intermediaries. This can be achieved through incentives, regulations, and market pressures that encourage intermediaries to adopt practices that prioritize product quality and safety. To increase consumer awareness and engagement, there is a need for educational campaigns emphasizing the importance of clean and safe food consumption. Retailers and online platforms can play a role in building consumer trust by transparently sharing information about the source and quality of their products.

What steps can consumers take to deal with this?

Consumer awareness is crucial, and it is pertinent for them to understand that regulatory frameworks exist to govern various aspects related to food contamination. The National Program for Organic Products (NPOP) serves as a certification for organic produce, ensuring that stringent standards for organic farming are met.

Additionally, the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) issues certificates to companies, attesting that they handle produce in a clean and hygienic environment. These certifications are not only a testament to the quality and authenticity of the products but also serve as a regulatory safeguard to protect consumers from potential contamination risks.