World Food Safety Day is a global annual celebration held on June 7th to emphasize the significance of upholding food standards. The aim of this day is to inspire United Nations member nations to prioritize food safety standards and foster collaboration to safeguard consumers from foodborne illnesses.
theme for World Food Safety Day 2023
The theme for World Food Safety Day 2023 is "Food standards save lives." It highlights the crucial role of food safety standards in ensuring the well-being of individuals. Consumers heavily rely on the information provided on food packaging to determine the safety of the products they consume. These food safety standards serve as guidelines for farmers and food processors alike.
significance of World Food Safety Day
The significance of World Food Safety Day 2023 lies in addressing the challenges posed by modern farming practices. These practices have led to the accumulation of pesticides, chemicals, and additives in food, which, if left unregulated, can pose significant risks to consumers. Moreover, water contamination has emerged as a major concern. By emphasizing adherence to food standards, World Food Safety Day aims to guarantee optimal health for all individuals.
Here are five essential facts about World Food Safety Day:
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), approximately 1 in 10 people worldwide are affected by foodborne diseases annually. Shockingly, an estimated 1.6 million individuals fall ill each day due to the consumption of unsafe food.
UN data reveals that foodborne diseases cause nearly 420,000 deaths each year, with children accounting for approximately 40% of these fatalities, amounting to around 125,000 deaths.
A 2019 report from the World Bank highlights the economic impact of foodborne diseases. In low- and middle-income countries, these diseases result in an estimated annual productivity loss of about $95.2 billion. Additionally, the cost of treating foodborne illnesses amounts to approximately $15 billion per year.
The WHO states that more than 200 foodborne diseases can be attributed to the consumption of unsafe food contaminated with bacteria, viruses, and parasites. Adopting adequate hygiene practices, proper handling, storage, and processing methods are essential in preventing these diseases.
Food safety is paramount in ensuring the safety of food throughout various stages, including harvesting, processing, storage, and distribution, until it reaches the point of preparation and consumption. By adhering to food safety standards at each stage, the risk of foodborne illnesses can be minimized.
History of World Food Safety Day
World Food Safety Day originated through the collaborative efforts of the World Health Organization (WHO) and the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) in 2018. Its establishment aimed to underscore the criticality of food safety in both public health and sustainable development.
Recognized by the United Nations in December 2018, World Food Safety Day saw its inaugural observance on June 7, 2019. This significant milestone marked a pivotal moment in global endeavors to tackle food safety concerns. The primary objective of this day is to encourage United Nations member nations to prioritize food safety standards and foster cooperation to protect consumers from foodborne diseases.
