Diagnosis of hygiene practices and food safety constraints within the agri-food industries of the Bamako district, Mali

Abstract

Food safety is a major public health and socio-economic development issue. The agri-food industry (AFI) in Bamako and its surrounding areas impacts GDP, employment, and consumer health. Non-compliant products lead to serious health risks and economic losses (absenteeism, healthcare costs). AFI companies must ensure self-monitoring and risk management at all stages of production and marketing. This study identifies the food safety constraints limiting the production of quality food and proposes avenues for improvement. To achieve this objective, an evaluation was conducted with 187 AFI companies using a questionnaire administered to directors, quality managers, and employees. Indicators included: regulatory knowledge, quality policy, infrastructure (premises, equipment), staff monitoring (medical check-ups, training), waste management, finished product testing (external laboratory), traceability, and product withdrawals/recalls. The results reveal widespread non-compliance. 58.82% of companies lack suitable buildings to prevent cross-contamination; 50.80% do not conduct medical examinations for their staff. 91.44% lack quality certification; 69.96% lack regulatory frameworks; 52.94% lack a formalized quality policy. 81.82% lack external control of finished products; 85.56% lack a withdrawal/recall system; and 80.21% lack traceability. These shortcomings require regulatory strengthening, training, and technical support to secure the food chain and promote sustainable development.