Framework for early assessment of food safety hazards in the transition to a more sustainable food system: three case studies in the Vietnamese Mekong Delta

Food production in delta areas such as the Vietnamese Mekong Delta (VMD) faces pressures from climate change effects, primarily salinity intrusion and drought. This urges a transition towards a more sustainable food system, which is better able to deal with the pressure factors. Multiple transition pathways are considered, including implementing adaptation strategies at the primary production stage. However, these changes may affect food safety. This study applied a qualitative framework to investigate changes in the occurrence of food safety hazards resulting from adopting adaptation strategies at primary production. We selected three case studies (CS) in the VMD: (1) adaptation in the usage and application of water sources for agricultural production, (2) shifting from monoculture rice, duck, and fish to an integrated crop-livestock farming, and (3) introduction of a new crop (i.e., quinoa). Potential microbiological and chemical hazards were assessed based on a literature study and expert input, and their likelihood of occurrence in each future scenario was compared to the current situation. The simplified approach was considered functional given the limited data for future scenarios. Our theoretical analysis showed that applying different types of fresh water resulted in different hazards (CS 1). Similarly, hazards in integrated farming (CS 2) would differ from those in separate farming. Quinoa production (CS 3) might result in similar or reduced hazards compared to rice. Regardless, building awareness on quinoa safety as a new commodity is crucial. The results of this analysis can inform policymakers and stakeholders to prioritize food safety hazards for mitigation and monitoring, and ultimately facilitate the joint efforts towards a “safe-by-design” food system transition. • A comprehensive evaluation of a food system transition must include food safety. • To this end, a qualitative framework was applied. • The framework was applied to three case studies in the Vietnamese Mekong Delta. • It helped to identify changes in occurrence of potential food safety hazards. • Data gaps on food safety before and after food system transitions were identified.