Publications and Resources
The OPTINUP Project is a research initiative led by Food Health Systems Advisory (FHSA) and funded by the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation. Focused on identifying nutritious, accessible, and affordable food value chains for low-income consumers, the project explores LIC behaviours and how minimally processed foods – like dried vegetables, smoked fish, and yogurt -can help close Nigeria’s critical nutrition gap.
Through fieldwork across eight Nigerian states, OPTINUP mapped out the barriers and opportunities faced by micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) – particularly female-led businesses – in producing and delivering affordable, safe, and nutritious foods. The findings are driving the design of targeted solutions like the ANTFem Program, aimed at empowering women entrepreneurs and strengthening food security in urban and peri-urban communities.
Food safety certification plays a crucial role in aligning African food businesses with international standards, expanding market access, and building consumer trust. This white paper, commissioned by Food Health Systems Advisory (FHSA), provides an in-depth analysis of voluntary food safety certification across Africa, focusing on globally recognized schemes like FSSC and BRCGS. Through a comprehensive review of certification trends, challenges, and opportunities, it explores how businesses, policymakers, and development partners can leverage food safety certifications to enhance trade competitiveness and strengthen food systems. With actionable insights, this report aims to guide efforts to improve certification uptake, address systemic barriers, and foster a safer, more resilient food industry across the continent.
