By Kemo Kanyi
Public health officials on Wednesday confiscated expired and unsafe food commodities, including rice, milk, caffeine and canned products, during a routine inspection at the Serekunda Market.
The exercise was conducted by the Western One Public Health Officers Association in collaboration with officials of the Food Safety and Quality Authority as part of efforts to protect public health and ensure food safety standards are maintained.
During the inspection, shops, mini-markets and street vendors were advised to comply with public health regulations and to ensure that food products sold to the public meet required safety standards.
The President of the Western One Public Health Officers Association, Lamin Marong, urged consumers to take precautionary measures when purchasing food items from vendors.
He advised the public to always check expiry dates on labelled food commodities to avoid consuming contaminated products that could expose them to diseases.
“This will help protect consumers from eating expired or unsafe food and reduce the risk of illness,” he said.
Marong described the inspection exercise as part of a nationwide effort aimed at promoting a healthier population. He also called on public health desk officers in various facilities to remain proactive in responding to inspection activities.
Food inspection expert at the Food Safety and Quality Authority, Buba Ceesay, highlighted the importance of regular food safety checks and urged authorities to diligently carry out their responsibilities.
He stressed that maintaining public health is a shared responsibility.
Officials including Ebrima Jawara of the Serekunda Mini Health Centre and the Association’s Information and Public Relations Officer, Basaikou Saidy, expressed similar views, emphasising the need for continuous monitoring of food products sold to the public.