World Food Safety Day: A call to prepare for the unexpected
World Food Safety Day, observed every June 7 since 2018, is a global reminder that the food we consume impacts our health, communities, and future generations. This year’s theme, “Food safety: Prepare for the unexpected,” resonates deeply in a world where one in 10 people falls ill due to contaminated food.
Ten percent of the population falling ill due to food contamination is a cause for concern.
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), contaminated food causes over 200 diseases ranging from diarrhea to cancers that affect millions worldwide. From mild discomfort to severe illness, the consequences are far-reaching.
And what is alarming is the vulnerability of children. The WHO said that 40 percent of foodborne disease burden is on children under five years old. With their fragile immune systems, this demands utmost vigilance and attention from healthcare services.
With foodborne diseases affecting a big chunk of the global population, food safety challenges could strain healthcare systems, disrupt economies, and burden families. This is why ensuring food safety is crucial in the prevention of illnesses.
To address food safety concerns, the government should enforce stringent regulations—from production to harvest, processing, storage, distribution, all the way to preparation and consumption. It should also invest in early detection systems to swiftly address disease outbreaks; and engage in educational campaigns to raise public awareness about safe food handling practices.
On the part of the private sector, it should ensure supply chain integrity. Food producers, processors, and retailers must prioritize safety every step of the way. It should practice transparency to build consumer trust. It is also necessary to engage in industry-wide collaboration to ensure safer products.
Another step to ensure food safety is to practice smart shopping. Always check labels, expiry dates, and storage instructions.
Proper cooking is another measure and practicing hygiene at home will go a long way in attaining food safety. Always cook meat and other types of food thoroughly, wash fruits and vegetables to avoid cross-contamination.
In the event of food-related illnesses, report it promptly to health or local authorities.
In line with this year’s theme, everyone should keep in mind that preparing for the unexpected is crucial in ensuring food safety at home, in public, and elsewhere.
Conducting risk assessment could jumpstart one’s preparation. This is vital in identifying potential hazards and planning responses. Another important step is setting emergency protocols by establishing crisis management procedures. Community engagement is another vital measure. By involving local communities in food safety initiatives, the public is assured that precautionary measures are in place right at the grassroots.
This is why the observance of World Food Safety Day is crucial as it raises awareness about food safety, promotes preventive measures, and manages foodborne risks.
As we celebrate World Food Safety Day today, let’s keep in mind that our choices ripple across the globe. By preparing for the unexpected, we nourish not only our bodies but also a safer, healthier world. Let’s stand together to make every meal a celebration of life and well-being.
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