Food safety in vulnerable populations: A perspective on the challenges and solutions
Esther Ibe Njoagwuani, Helen Onyeaka, Ifeanyi Michael Mazi, Hope Akegbe, Iyiola Olatunji Oladunjoye, Chidinma Ezinne Ochulor, Adeola Dolapo Omotosho, Olumide A. Odeyemi, Ogueri Nwaiwu, Phemelo Tamasiga
Abstract
Vulnerable populations are a particular group that are not capable of fending for themselves due to a number of limitations. Among many things, of particular concern is the food safety challenges faced by these individuals and the high risk of susceptibility to foodborne diseases. In this paper, an attempt is made to point out the various challenges faced by vulnerable populations that make them more susceptible to foodborne illness than other healthy adults. Also, the paper highlights possible improvement pathways through which these people can have access to safe and nutritious food, and the current interventional steps taken to address the food safety risk associated with food handling activities of food meant for vulnerable groups.