Food safety innovation and local farming

Abstract

In recent years, there has been an increase in the consumption of fresh fruits and vegetables from small local producers. At the same time, a rise in the number of foodborne outbreaks associated with the consumption of these products has been observed. Preventing such outbreaks requires the rigorous implementation of food safety practices throughout the entire supply chain, namely through the systematic application of Good Agricultural Practices (GAP) and Good Handling Practices (GHP). The main objectives of this study were to: i) assess the perceptions of both consumers and producers regarding food safety, with a particular focus on local and small-scale horticultural production; ii) identify hazards present in their supply chains and determine the level of compliance with food safety practices, GAP and GHP; and iii) implement a food safety management system adapted to these supply chains, using innovative and low-cost methods. The overall goal is to support small local producers in providing safer horticultural products to consumers, by raising awareness among both producers and consumers of the importance of good practices and their effective implementation. The results showed that both groups value several aspects related to food safety and demonstrate some awareness of the topic. Various hazards were identified in the analysed fruits and vegetables, soils, and irrigation water, including protozoa (Toxoplasma gondii and Giardia intestinalis in vegetables); pathogenic bacteria (such as Bacillus cereus in food and Listeria monocytogenes in irrigation water); pesticides previously banned by the European Union (although detected below the established Maximum Residue Limits); and phosphate flame retardants (PFRs), found at high concentrations. A seasonal variation in the hazards identified was observed, with differences between summer and winter, highlighting the potential impact of climatic conditions on the occurrence and fluctuation of these hazards, particularly under extreme weather events. The study also found that certain practices are more easily adopted by producers. However, the implementation of traceability linked to food safety proved to be particularly challenging, mainly due to the lack of operational records, often associated with personal and organisational factors of the producers themselves. The studies conducted in this thesis may be replicated in other geographical contexts, particularly in developed countries, where data on food safety within the supply chains of small scale local horticultural producers remain scarce. Consolidating knowledge in this area requires the development and continuous updating of targeted training programes for both producers and consumers, aiming to promote greater food safety literacy. In parallel, addressing the challenges faced by small Portuguese producers calls for more active involvement from regional associations, as well as the provision of strategic and financial support from governmental bodies. The coordinated implementation of these measures could lead to tangible improvements in the safety of horticultural products placed on the market by these producers.

Date of Award	10 Oct 2025
Original language	English
Awarding Institution	Universidade Católica Portuguesa
Sponsors	Fundação para a Ciência e a Tecnologia
Supervisor	Paula Teixeira (Supervisor)