World Food Safety Day

Food can become contaminated with an array of hazards: bacteria, chemicals, fungi or parasites, which can cause at least 200 different diseases. These illnesses impact health, livelihoods, education and economies. However, they can be prevented - when we are informed and take action. Each year on June 7th, the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) and the World Health Organization (WHO) work together to facilitate the observance of this Day all around the world. On World Food Safety Day , we remember that food safety is a collective right and responsibility – everyone needs to play their part. Join us this year to celebrate World Food Safety Day – whether as a policymaker, a food business owner or employee, as an educator or as a consumer! Because food safetyis everyone’s business.

  Governments can: •Invest in research and support scientists. When governments invest in sound science to guide policies, they create a solid foundation for good governance. •Invest in data collection. This can support regular review of scientific advice and promote data sharing both within and beyond their borders. •Develop science-based policies to ensure food safety along the food supply chain, reassure consumers about the safety of their food, and address emerging risks. • Promote science education to empower young people with the knowledge to stay safe and secure the future of food safety.

  Science provides the basis for food safety guidance, but preventing foodborne illness depends on all of us taking the right actions. Food businesses can: •Implement evidence-based programmes to identify potential contamination risks and ensure safe handling, processing, distribution and storage of food. • Reinforce food safety practices by continuously educating and retraining employees on the latest food safety practices and emerging risks. This ensures consistent high standards throughout the supply chain. • Support data collection efforts to facilitate regular review of the scientific basis on which practices and risk management measures are established and monitor and oversee their implementation

   Schools can: • Teach food safety basics and incorporate food safety education into school curricula, teaching students about safe food handling and hygiene. • Make food safety fun! Encourage students to learn through creative activities and involve them in developing good practices in their school. • Encourage an interest in science. The next generation of scientists is at school! Children should develop an understanding of science and develop the skills to critically assess information and support evidence-based decision making.

 Academics can: • Conduct and share research on food safety including known and emerging risks, and disseminate findings to inform policy and the public. • Provide education and training to governments and the food industry on the latest food safety practices, emerging risks and the importance of sound scientific research and data to prevent foodborne illnesses

  Keep it safe! Business operators must ensure that food is safed.  

  Grow it safe!  Agricultural and food producers need to adopt good practices.  

  Ensure it's safe! Governments must ensure safe and nutritious food for all

  Team up for food safety Let's work together for food safety and good health!