APPLYING HAZARD ANALYSIS CRITICAL CONTROL POINT (HACCP) PRINCIPLES TO MITIGATE AFLATOXIN CONTAMINATION IN MAIZE PRODUCTION IN GHANA

Aflatoxin contamination in maize or corn has a significant health risk, production risk, and economic losses in Ghana's agricultural sector. This study uses the hazard analysis critical control point (HACCP) principle to estimate the cost and benefit of aflatoxin prevention in maize production. It also identifies critical control points (CCPs) across the maize value chain at the producer level. This helps assess where the major contamination occurs at the producer level to help reduce aflatoxin contamination and implement control measures. Data were collected from the farmers and extension officers in Ghana through interviews, the Ghana Statistical Service (GSS), the Ghana Ministry of Food and Agriculture (MoFA), and the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA). This study aims to provide a comprehensive economic analysis by comparing the cost of aflatoxin mitigation with the financial benefit derived from improved maize quality, reduced health risks, and market availability. Break-even analysis was used to examine the individual mitigation practices and highlight the yield performances from reduced contamination. The findings of this study highlight the economic feasibility of adopting HACCP as a standardized practice for maize producers and the potential to enhance food security to support the United Nations' 2030 Sustainable Goal. The research contributes to policy discussions and food safety regulations and gives practical guidelines for the maize value chain at the producer level. This supports food security, boosts productivity, and promotes economic sustainability in Ghana's maize industry.