Dutch study unveils methods to boost Egypt's food security

Egypt is intensifying efforts to develop this vital sector in line with its Vision 2030 and sustainable development goal of enhancing food security.

The Netherlands, being at the forefront of countries with long-term relations with Egypt, aims at boosting agricultural productivity and improving the quality and safety of goods

The Netherlands Agricultural Network in Egypt, in collaboration with Chemonics Egypt Consultants and Wageningen University and Research, conducted a study to showcase ways to reduce post-harvest losses (PHL), which is food lost in the phase between crop harvesting and consumption due to poor storage.

The study also focuses on enhancing export potential, evaluating cold chain investment opportunities, and improving value chain productivity and smallholder farmer competitiveness.

Cold chain refers to the techniques by which agricultural commodities can be stored at appropriate temperatures to avoid spoilage or change in colour or texture.

“In the Near East and North Africa, food loss and waste in food value chains amount to 250 kg per person, costing governments and citizens more than $60 billion annually,” the study noted.