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‘Local foods vital in strengthening food industry’

LOCAL foods are vital for the growth of the food industry and the preservation of cultural heritage, as they enhance sustainability and bolster local economies.

DAR ES SALAAM: LOCAL foods are vital for the growth of the food industry and the preservation of cultural heritage, as they enhance sustainability and bolster local economies.

Speaking during the Coca-Cola food fest in Dar es Salaam on Tuesday, Ms Asha Mohamed, a food vendor emphasised that use of local foods could play vital role in improving their living standards.

“Emphasising local ingredients can enhance the unique identity of food products, appealing to health-conscious and environmentally aware customers, ultimately driving demand and growth within the industry,” she said.

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Apart from being a significant source of income for food vendors, Ms Mohamed noted that local foods are a treasure of the nation’s cultures and are essential for the people’s health.

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“Today, through this festival, we have been able to showcase the beauty and flavours of our local foods to inspire love and understanding among Tanzanians,” she said.

On her part, Ms Asha Seif said in a time when the food industry is growing, it is important to remind people about the significance of nutritious and traditional food.

“Traditional foods often contain vital nutrients and are linked to cultural practices that foster community and identity,” she said.

By prioritising these foods, consumers can support local economies and sustainable agriculture while also enjoying the rich flavours and heritage that come with them. Ms Seif added, this awareness helps ensure that the food industry develops in a way that respects cultural diversity and nutritional integrity