The Ghana Association of Food Scientists and Technologists (GhAFoST) is advocating for a scientific approach to food production in the country to create a sustainable food environment.

Speaking at the maiden annual general meeting in Kumasi, interim president Prof. Paa-Nii Torgbor Johnson believes this shift would boost the country’s economic potential.

“We must transition our traditional food practices to a more science-based approach. We must help people understand that food preparation, manufacturing, and anything related to food should be grounded in proper science and technology.

"I believe we should aim to take typical Ghanaian foods beyond our borders. This will help build our local industry and ensure that the food we consume is nutritionally balanced,” he said.

The meeting was held under the theme: “Advancing Ghana’s agripreneurship through food science and technology: The role of GhAFoST.”

Vice President Prof. Mrs Sarah Darkwa urged the association to focus on creating high-value products from agricultural produce.

“We should develop novel food products and technologies and start managing food-based businesses. This will generate employment opportunities in food processing and manufacturing,” she said.

She added, “We should foster collaboration between academia, industry, and government.”

The interim General Secretary Prof. Jacob Agbenorhevi urged members to actively mobilize other stakeholders in the food industry to join the association.