Background:
The International Food Policy Research Institute (IFPRI) seeks a qualified Ethiopia-based organization to conduct a follow-up assessment of milk safety in Addis Ababa. This assignment builds on a 2018 IFPRI survey of 254 dairy retail outlets in Addis Ababa. The new study will revisit a subsample of these outlets to assess the safety and quality of milk sold. The objective is to generate updated evidence on milk composition, microbial quality, and food safety risks, and to link these findings to marketing channels and pricing. Specifically, the study aims to: (i) Assess the composition and microbial quality of both pasteurized and non-pasteurized milk sold in Addis Ababa retail markets; (ii) Evaluate milk safety risks, including potential contamination; (iii) Compare results across formal and informal distribution channels and analyze whether safety and quality are reflected in prices; (iv) Provide updated insights into food safety conditions in liquid milk markets in Addis Ababa.
Scope of work:
Milk sample and data collection: Collect approximately 50 samples of pasteurized milk and 50 samples of non-pasteurized milk from retail outlets. Stagger purchases to capture different batches and account for variability. Administer a short questionnaire alongside sample collection to gather information on refrigeration availability and use, storage and container types, milk delivery and transportation methods, and retail pricing.
Laboratory analysis: Conduct laboratory testing of milk samples for: (i) Composition: fat, protein, ash, total solids, solids-not-fat, and (ii) Microbial quality and safety indicators: aerobic plate counts, coliforms, Enterobacteriaceae, Salmonella, and E. coli. Supervise and ensure strict adherence to sampling and testing protocols. Cover all expenses related to sample collection and laboratory analysis.
Data analysis and reporting: Lead the analysis and interpretation of collected data and draft a comprehensive report on milk composition, microbial quality, and food safety risks. Collaborate with the joint IFPRI and ICARDA team to examine how safety and quality outcomes relate to retail channels, pricing, and market types (formal vs. informal).
Required qualifications:
Proven experience in conducting similar assignments.
Financial capacity, including documented ability to manage and report expenditures.
Ability to complete the assignment within the specified timeline.
Duration: The assignment is expected to be completed within three months (from preparation to final reporting).
Application documents:
Interested applicants should submit the following documents in English:
A cover letter.
Technical proposal, including a detailed budget.
CV of team lead.
Application Deadline: September 19, 2025