Factors influencing willingness to pay for aflatoxin-safe foods among farmers, traders, and consumers in sub-Saharan Africa: A systematic review

Abstract

This systematic review aimed at assessing the willingness to pay (WTP) for aflatoxin-safe foods among different stakeholders in sub-Saharan Africa where aflatoxin exposure is prevalent and food safety standards are lacking. Eleven eligible studies assessing WTP for aflatoxin-safe food, conducted between 2015 and 2023 from five sub-Saharan African countries were retrieved from Scopus, PubMed, and Google Scholar databases. The results showed that WTP for aflatoxin-safe foods among food value chain stakeholders (farmers, traders, and consumers) was relatively high, at 73.65 %. The price premium varied across different products, ranging from US $0.13 to more than $10. Additionally, awareness of aflatoxins and their toxic effects increased WTP among different stakeholders. WTP was similarly affected by other factors such as demographic characteristics (age, gender, and education), socioeconomic (household size, income, and incentives), and contextual factors (place of residence and experience). Findings suggest that the high WTP observed indicates a latent demand for aflatoxin-safe products. Policymakers, researchers, and practitioners should consider the identified factors when designing aflatoxin mitigation interventions and regulatory frameworks.

Keywords

• Aflatoxins
• Mycotoxins
• Food safety
• Willingness to pay
• Awareness
• Price premium