Diffusion And Adoption Of The Chorkor Smoker In Tema U Compound

Abstract

According to Ameh(1990) fish constitutes a major part of the animal protein intake in West Africa, ranging from 20% in Benin, to 70% in Ghana, Sierra Leone and Senegal. It is an important source of animal protein in Ghana and, of all the animal protein sources it is the cheapest. It is also a source of iodine which could be used to control goitre (iodine deficiency disorder) now prevalent in Ghana. Acquah(1988) emphasised that although Ghana has abundant marine and fresh water fishery resources most people are deprived of fish supply. He attributed this situation to post-harvest losses. Post-harvest losses account for the seasonal fish shortages, and high prices of fish. In Ghana, poor fish handling and inadequate storage facilities have contributed to post-harvest losses. Cold storage facilities are inadequate. The few cold stores in the country are located in the big towns. In rural areas they are non-existent. Besides, the high fees for cold stores may deter small scale fish dealers. The scarcity of refrigerated vehicles and the poor road and transport network do not permit the efficient distribution of fresh and frozen fish. There are other methods of reducing post-harvest losses in Ghana. These include drying, salting and smoking of fish. Fish smoking is a very widespread and important method of fish preservation in Ghana.