Linking Local Suppliers to Global Food Markets: A Critical Analysis of Food Safety Issues in Developing Countries

Food safety issues are gaining momentum across the globe, triggered by rising consumer awareness, technological up-gradation and with growing international trade. This chapter describes the development of global food supply chains and opportunities for developing countries in the global market regime. It explores food quality, safety and labelling issues along with their implication on global trade and on the livelihood of the farmers concerned. The chapter highlights the role of local governments, international institutions (WTO, ISO, Codex Alimentarius) alongside the rise of public as well as private standards in food safety. The roles of stakeholder collaboration, capacity building and corporate involvement in development of safe and efficient food chains are discussed. Case studies from selected agriculturally resource-rich countries are also included. Finally, the chapter provides important policy-level recommendations required to strengthen food safety standards in developing countries within the context of rapid globalization and a growing food trade