The Tribune

By RASHAD ROLLE

Tribune Staff Reporter

rrolle@tribunemedia.net

WITHIN five years, the Bahamas could cut food imports by about 15 per cent – saving $200 million in the process – if the government sustains its current push to develop the Agriculture industry.

Speaking to The Tribune at the IICA Head Office after a three day Hazard Analysis and Critical Care Point (HACCP) seminar, BAIC chairman Arnold Forbes said they expect 30 students who participated in the seminar to come away with a certification in following internationally recognised food safety protocols.

Mr Forbes added that the Bahamas could see “something major” in terms of food security in 10 years if the current push towards it is sustained.

Speaking during his opening address, Mr Forbes said: “My mantra has been to press toward a greater degree of food security for the Bahamas as spelt out in the approved 20-year plan for agriculture. Food security has two basic meanings. First of all, it is the assurance that we are able to feed ourselves. But just as importantly, food security speaks to the safety of the food we produce for human consumption.”

“We are well on our way in establishing and implementing produce for human consumption. We are well on our way in establishing and implementing the method that will ensure that we are able to grow enough food to feed ourselves. But all the food in the world would do no good if it is not fit for human consumption.”

“The workshop we have organised for the next three days is designed to educate all participants as to what is required to attain to international standards in the food industry. Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Point (HACCP) is a good management system designed to cover all aspects of food production, from the farm to the table. What is being offered over the next three days is cutting edge information technology in the food production industry. It is only concerned with volume in production and the more important aspect of quality for consumption.”

Mr Forbes said he is convinced that the exportation of food can become a powerful pillar of the Bahamian economy. However, to achieve this, he said the Bahamas must produce a quality of food that will meet international best standards.