World Food Safety Day 2022: Safer Food, Better Health
On June 7, 2022, the United Nations marked the fourth global World Food Safety Day to draw attention and mobilize action to prevent, detect, and manage foodborne risks, ultimately improving human health¹. This year’s theme is “Safer food, better health.”
Why Is Food Safety Important?
Safe food is essential for human health and well-being. It serves as one of the most critical guarantors for good health. The benefits of safe food include improved nutrition and reduced absenteeism in schools and workplaces. Unfortunately, foodborne diseases affect approximately 1 in 10 people worldwide each year, with over 200 different diseases ranging from diarrhea to cancers.
The Role of World Food Safety Day
The United Nations General Assembly established World Food Safety Day in 2018 to raise awareness about this crucial issue. The World Health Organization (WHO) and the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) jointly facilitate the observance of World Food Safety Day, collaborating with member states and other stakeholders.
Key Actions for Safer Food
On World Food Safety Day, specific actions are called for across multiple sectors to enhance food safety:
- Policymakers: Support policy measures to strengthen national food safety systems and ensure compliance with food safety standards. Engage in multi-sectoral collaboration at local, national, regional, and global levels.
- Food Businesses: Comply with international food standards and foster a food safety culture by involving employees, suppliers, and other stakeholders.
- Educational Institutions and Workplaces: Promote safe food handling practices and provide support for food safety.
- Consumers: Practice safe food handling at home, stay informed, and actively promote food safety.
A Milestone in Food Safety
World Food Safety Day 2022 is observed ten days after the adoption of the updated WHO Global Strategy for Food Safety. This strategy represents a significant milestone in promoting health, ensuring global safety, and protecting vulnerable populations¹.
In summary, World Food Safety Day serves as a reminder of the critical role safe food plays in our lives. By taking collective action, we can create a healthier and safer food environment for everyone. 🌍🍽️¹⁴.
For more information, you can explore the official WHO guide or read about World Food Safety Day 2021 and the vital role played by the FAO in maintaining food safety globally²³.