A Farm to Fork Risk Assessment for the Use of Wastewater in Agriculture in Accra, Ghana

• DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0142346
• Publication Date: 2015-11-10T19:17:12Z
• Authors: Prince Antwi-Agyei; Sandy Cairncross; Anne Peasey; Vivien Price; Jane Bruce; Kelly Baker; Christine Moe; Joseph Ampofo; George Armah; Jeroen Ensink
• Keywords: Food contaminant

The need to minimise consumer risk, especially for food that can be consumed uncooked, is a continuing public health concern, particularly in places where safe sanitation and hygienic practices are absent. use of wastewater agriculture has been associated with disease risks, though its relative significance transmission remains unclear. This study aimed at identifying key risk factors produce contamination different entry points the chain. Over 500 ready-to-eat salad samples were collected from fields, markets, kitchens during dry wet seasons Accra, Ghana, over 300 soil irrigation water collected. All analysed E. coli, human adenovirus norovirus using standard microbiological procedures, real time RT-PCR. Finally, critical exposures microbial quality assessed through observations interviews. found 80% contaminated median concentrations ranging 0.64 3.84 Log coli/g produce. Prepared street vendors was most (4.23 coli/g), consumption exceeded acceptable limits. Key identified farm level. Storage duration temperature had significant influence on sold while revealed washed used rinse before sale dirty. source operating hygiene permit kitchens. argues manage all domains along chain, it would more effective prioritise markets due cost, ease implementation significance.