A scientist inspired by invisible risks
As one of the Centre of Excellence in Food Security’s postgraduate grantees, Sheldon Viviers approaches science as more than discovery; for him, it is an act of protection. Supervised by CoE-FS Co-Director Professor Lise Korsten, his MSc research explored one of South Africa’s most overlooked challenges: food safety within smallholder fresh produce farms. These farms, often informal and under-resourced, play a vital yet underappreciated role in sustaining local economies and feeding communities across the country. His MSc research focused on one of South Africa’s most overlooked challenges: food safety within smallholder fresh produce farms.
“Smallholder farms are the backbone of our informal food system,” Sheldon explains. “They provide around 80 percent of fresh produce in informal markets and remain essential to the livelihoods and nutrition of rural households.”
He realised early in his studies that while these farms sustain millions of people, little was known about the microbial safety of their produce. His goal became to shed light on this hidden part of the food system and to identify how contamination happens, where it begins, and how it can be prevented.
Photography by EYEscape
Investigating food safety from soil to plate
Sheldon’s research set out to examine the presence of bacteria and other foodborne pathogens across the interconnected systems of water, soil, and crops on smallholder farms. By mapping these connections, he hoped to find the key points at which contamination occurs and to suggest practical interventions that farmers could apply immediately.
“The farm environment is the single most important factor in determining food safety,” he says. “Everything is connected. The quality of the irrigation water, the way manure is treated before use, and even how animals and crops are integrated all play a role.”
His study confirmed that contaminated irrigation water and untreated manure are the biggest contributors to bacterial contamination on farms. But Sheldon’s perspective is not one of blame. Instead, he emphasises collaboration and education. “Farmers want to do things right. With small adjustments, like filtering water, composting manure for longer periods, or washing hands and tools regularly, we can significantly reduce health risks.”
Photography by EYEscape
Turning challenges into growth
Conducting this research was not without obstacles. Sheldon had to navigate logistical constraints, unpredictable timelines, and equipment delays. “The biggest challenge was learning to adapt,” he recalls. “I had to stay focused, work closely with my colleagues, and find creative solutions when things didn’t go according to plan.”
This adaptability, he says, became one of his greatest strengths as a young scientist. “Research teaches resilience. Every problem is an opportunity to learn how to work smarter.”
Empowered by the Centre of Excellence in Food Security
For Sheldon, being part of the Centre of Excellence in Food Security (CoE-FS) has been life-changing. “The CoE lifted a huge weight off my shoulders,” he says. “Not having to worry about tuition, accommodation, or food meant I could dedicate myself completely to my studies.”
Through CoE-FS support, Sheldon was also able to attend national conferences and workshops, where he exchanged ideas with experts and peers. “Those experiences opened my mind,” he says. “They helped me see how my research fits into the broader food security landscape and connected me with people who share my passion.”
Beyond funding, the CoE provided mentorship and a sense of belonging. “I’ve built lifelong relationships through the CoE,” he reflects. “It’s a network of people who believe in each other’s potential, and that’s invaluable.”
From research to real-world impact
Sheldon’s work is not confined to the laboratory. His ultimate ambition is to establish a food safety laboratory dedicated to smallholder and informal farmers who cannot afford commercial testing services. “South Africa’s food safety systems still have gaps,” he explains. “I want to create a space where farmers can access reliable, affordable testing and advice.”
He believes this would bridge a critical divide between formal food systems and the informal markets where most South Africans buy their daily produce. “Food safety should not be a privilege,” Sheldon insists. “It should be a right. By empowering farmers with practical knowledge and simple, low-cost interventions, we can improve public health and strengthen the local food system.”
Guided by the mentorship of Professor Korsten, Sheldon continues to be inspired by her example of research grounded in real-world impact.
Photography bye EYEscape
A vision for safer, fairer food systems
Sheldon’s journey reflects the very heart of the CoE-FS mission: using research to make tangible differences in people’s lives. His commitment to mentorship, his focus on community-based solutions, and his drive to build safer and more equitable food systems mark him as one of the next generation of food security leaders.
“Science should serve people,” he concludes. “If my research helps even one farmer grow safer produce or one family eat with more confidence, then it’s been worth it.”
