Head of Quality and Product Development at Twinnings Ovaltine Nigeria Ltd., Mr. Samson Baron, has emphasised the critical role of digital traceability and quality control in enhancing food safety in the digital era.
Baro made the call on Thursday in Lagos at the 11th Regional Food Science and Technology Summit, organised by the Nigerian Institute of Food Science and Technology (NIFST).
Citing a World Health Organisation (WHO) report, Baro noted that approximately 91 million people in Africa consume contaminated food each year, resulting in 137,000 deaths.
He stressed that food safety was central to the food supply chain and could be significantly strengthened through digital innovation.
“Traceability is the ability to trace food end-to-end, from upstream to downstream.
“If we have an effective traceability system in place, it will allow for the identification of the source of raw materials and the tracking of products throughout the supply chain,” he explained.
Baro underscored the importance of robust quality control systems, which ensured that final food products were safe and met specific standards.
“This includes setting up a pre-requisite programme, implementing Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Points (HACCP), and identifying process risks.”
He also highlighted emerging technologies such as blockchain, Internet of Things (IoT) sensors, and Artificial Intelligence (AI) as tools to modernise and strengthen food safety frameworks.
For instance, he said transport companies were already using blockchain to track shipments in real-time.
Baro encouraged food scientists to invest in digital literacy, collaborate across sectors, and develop harmonised standards that prioritise transparency and consumer trust.
He also stressed the need for regular audits, inspections, and direct engagement with consumers.
“Food safety has moved beyond manual data entry.
“Embracing digital technologies is now essential to improve food safety, quality control, and traceability,” he said, urging the use of local IT teams to develop cost-effective digital solutions.”
In her keynote address, Mrs Jessica Nworgu, Quality Control Manager at Flour Mills of Nigeria Plc, highlighted the role of food science and technology in tackling food security, nutrition, and sustainability challenges in Nigeria.
“Food science and technology can provide nutritious food for everyone.
“The fortification of staple foods such as flour, sugar, and oil can help address micronutrient deficiencies,” Nworgu stated.
She added that science-driven innovations could improve food safety, reduce post-harvest losses, and promote value-added processing to economically empower farmers.
Digitalising agriculture and the food value chain, she noted, would enhance quality and safety, while boosting consumer awareness of nutritious food choices.
Nworgu also emphasised the need for science-led food policy, mentorship of future leaders, and the preservation of indigenous foods.
She advocated for eco-friendly practices, plant-based protein alternatives, and increased investment in food science research.
“Breaking down silos between disciplines and sectors is key to fostering collaboration, mentorship, and effective, science-driven policy,” she said.
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