This archive report was first published on 30 November 2019.
As we celebrate the importance of farming in our economy, it's essential to acknowledge the critical role farm hygiene plays in producing healthy and safe food.
According to a recent article published on November 30, 2019, by Ann Macharia, farming is often viewed as a 'dirty job' that is only recognized by those in the sector. However, this perception is far from the truth.
As Ann Macharia notes, 'farming, however, should not be a dirty job in the real sense of the phrase because what consumers need is clean, healthy food.'
One of the first steps in producing healthy and safe food is observing farm hygiene. This begins from nursery management to post-harvest practices. A farmer should provide clean water, sufficient sanitation units, and adequate facilities such as basins, soap, bathrooms, and dressing or changing rooms.
It's also essential to remind workers of the importance of farm and personal hygiene. Preparing a checklist for general hygiene instructions can help keep the farm clean. This should include avoiding contact with food when unwell, keeping nails clean, wearing protective clothing, covering hair, and disposing of litter at designated areas.
Protective gear such as overcoats, gumboots, gloves, masks, and respirators should be provided to each farm worker. Regular risk assessments should be undertaken to determine the level of hygiene, and control measures should be introduced to avoid, reduce, or eliminate risks.
Conducting a farm self-assessment to identify hazards and their causes is also crucial. By following these simple steps, farmers can ensure that they are producing safe food for consumption.
