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ERIPHA participated in national conference on food safety





Eritrean Public Health Association have participated in national conference on food safety, organized by Ministry of Agriculture on the 24th December 2024. The conference was held under the title "Working together to Ensure Food safety" and it aimed at improving food safety in Eritrea through the collaboration of relevant stakeholders. As part of its commitment to improve food safety, ERIPHA have presented 2 research papers prepared by its members.

 

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The first paper titled "Assessment of Heavy Metals in the Sediment and Water of Mai Nefhi and Toker Reservoirs", was presented by Dr. Zerabruk Teafamariam, ERIPHA president. The study aimed to assess potential heavy metal contamination from natural processes and human activities in comparison to WHO standards. The paper assessed the presence, quantity of heavy metal in both water reservoirs using flame absorption atomic spectrometry. The study encompassed various analysis such as geochemical index, enrichment factor, contamination factor and contamination degree. The study identified heavy metal level below WHO standards. Dr. Zerabruk recommended introduction of regular water quality monitoring to assess change and trend over time & wider researches into the topic.

 

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The second paper titled "Assessment of Sanitary Status of Food and Drinks Catering Establishments in South East Asmara, Eritrea, 2019" was presented by Mr. Habtom Kidane, ERIPHA member from zoba Debub. The study aimed to assess the sanitary conditions of food and drinks catering establishment services in South East Asmara. The study included 139 food establishments. The study identified several concerning findings such as poor sanitary situation in kitchens and toilets, vermin infestations, low hygienic practice among food handlers & improper food storage and spoilage. Mr. Habtom Kidane called for stringent regulation and supervision of food establishment, stronger collaboration among line ministries and training of food establishment mangers.

 

Both studies were well accepted by the audience. Questions for more elaboration and clarifications were directed at both presenters. The presentation by Dr. Zerabruk Tesfamriam have generated the most questions. Both presenters responded satisfactorily the question asked.

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ERIPHA have worked extensively in food safety, and many research papers were done by ERIPHA members. Additionally, ERIPHA is working to train food establishments worker on food safety. ERIPHA plans to conduct further researchers and training to secure food safety for Eritrean population.



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