MICROBIOLOGICAL QUALITY OF READY-TO-EAT FOODSIN BENIN: BIOLOGICAL CONTAMINANTAND HEALTH RISKS

In sub-Saharan Africa, the food trade represents a significant aspect of human activity. In Benin, public markets and other street stalls represent a significant presence. However, most vendors lack the basic infrastructure required to ensure product safety. Traditional foodstuffs, such as dried fish and other products that are not preserved, present a significant health risk owing to the presence of biological pathogens,which can cause significant damage to human health if ingested. Foods containing biological pathogens are thought to cause over 200 diseases.Africa, particularly Benin, is currently experiencing tremendous economic expansion and is of great interest for eliminating or minimizing the danger of food-borne diseases. Therefore, it is important to assess the type of pathogen responsible and the circumstances in which it causes health problems. This review considers the stock of biological contaminants in foods sold in Benin, the associated health risks, and highlights the food safety practices.