Banjul, 17 July 2025: Amidst the growing rainy season, the Food Safety and Quality Authority (FSQA) has issued a strong public advisory on the heightened risks of food contamination across the country.
In an exclusive interview, FSQA Director General Momodou Bah outlined the main threats facing households and food businesses. “The major food risks during the rainy season are microbial food contaminants, ranging from bacteria, yeasts, to moulds. Due to high temperatures, a lot of stagnant water, and high moisture content in the air (humidity), the environment becomes highly conducive for the rapid growth and spread of microbes. Some of these microbes are harmful when ingested in food. They produce toxins that make people and animals sick and even die,” he said.
To help prevent foodborne illness, the Authority has increased public awareness campaigns and stepped-up inspections in high-risk areas. “FSQA intensifies the raising of awareness for both businesses and consumers about the dangers and adopting best practices to preserve and handle food to avoid food contamination leading to food poisoning. We also increase inspections, particularly at markets, street food vendors, schools, and bakeries. These are the critical control points during the rains,” Mr. Bah explained.
He urged vendors to remain vigilant and maintain hygienic storage practices, especially during this period. “My advice to vendors is to adopt good hygiene practices, good storage practices, and good handling practices. Report any food poisoning to the health authorities and FSQA. Wash food items properly, such as vegetables, meat, fish, fruits, etc, and cook food adequately. Watch out for food allergies as they can be equally severe. Do not store food for long as food spoilage becomes high during the rainy season. Always store food in cool, dry, and well-ventilated places. Report bad practices to the FSQA for remedial action.”
According to FSQA, certain foods are more likely to spoil or carry contaminants during the rainy months. “Consumers should watch out for high rates of spoilage in dairy products, high microbial contaminants in poultry products, and increased mycotoxins in groundnut products and cereals, high histamine and toxicity levels in certain fish species and seafood,” he warned.
Mr. Bah concluded by encouraging the public to take a proactive role in promoting food safety.
“Be an advocate for safer food. Follow the five keys to safer food. Report any food safety concern to the Authority (FSQA) or any competent body, like the health authorities and the police. You can also call our toll-free line on 1299 or send us photos and videos via WhatsApp 5225659. Remember, food safety is everyone’s concern,” he admonished.
By Mahzouba Maya Faal
