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USE OF STANDADRDS IN THE Pineapple Industry – Ghana . Safoa . Introduction . One of the important aspects of the standardisation is implementation.
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Introduction • One of the important aspects of the standardisation is implementation. • To this end the GSB-IPCEE collaboration undertook a pilot inspection programme to monitor the implementation of the national standard for pineapples.
PROJECT AIM • To make Ghanaian pineapple producers aware of quality standards and their benefits to the industry • To imbibe quality into the procedure and the final output of the producers • To increase the overall quality and competitiveness of the Ghanaian produce on the International market
Implementation • Ten pineapple farms were selected for the project • Pineapples were inspected regularly at the ten selected pack houses • The pineapples were inspected again at the Harbour
Implementation • Inspections were done by an independent inspection body • Inspections and pack house activities were audited by the GSB auditors - to ensure right interpretation of standards • Auditors checked to be sure national and marketing standards were adhered to
Implementation • The indices of the project were the external quality , the internal quality and presence / absence of pests and the packaging material use and storage • The auditors also inspected the general house keeping of the pack house
Outcome • Gradual increase in general quality of produce • Increase in general awareness of the national pineapple standard and a better understanding of client specifications • Marked reduction in customer complaints
Improvement in customer feedback – impressed with quality of produce • The understanding of standards requirements by pack house staff
Way forward • The need to implement such a programme for all fresh produce. • The need for regular training of pack house staff • The need for Associations to own the National and private standards
Limitations • Cost of Inspection - The independent inspection body was quite expensive • The need for a quick test for Pesticide residue limits • The need for a regulatory body to oversee such a system
Conclusion • National standards are a good aid to assist in complying to international trade.