Title: Would food irradiation as a means of technology transfer assist food productivity and security in Africa and sustain its development?

Authors: I. Tewfik, P. Amuna, F. Zotor

Addresses: The International Development Centre for Food, Nutrition and Public Health, University of Westminster, 4, Little Titchfield Street, London W1W 7UW, UK. ' Medway School of Sciences, University of Greenwich, Chatham Maritime, Kent, ME4 4TB, UK. ' Medway School of Sciences, University of Greenwich, Chatham Maritime, Kent, ME4 4TB, UK

Abstract: Technology transfer to the developing world will immensely improve its productivity and development. Once transferred, it will empower developing countries to combat various problems such as; food insecurity, poverty, famine and food-borne illnesses. For many years, the community of food safety professionals has been trying to draw the attention of poor communities to the importance of food irradiation as a robust measure to reduce the devastating consequences of food-borne diseases. Not merely would food irradiation preserve food and ensure its wholesomeness but it would also enhance, significantly, the health status and provide economic benefits for individuals, families and entire populations in developing countries in general, and especially, in Africa. This review seeks to highlight the potential benefits of transferring food irradiation technology to promote sustainable development in such populations.

Keywords: technology transfer; food irradiation; productivity; food safety and security; developing countries.

DOI: 10.1504/IJTPM.2004.004566

International Journal of Technology, Policy and Management, 2004 Vol.4 No.1, pp.44 - 52

Published online: 21 May 2004 *

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