World Food Safety Day 2023: Food Standards Save Lives

World Food Safety Day is celebrated every year on June 7th. The theme for 2023 is “Food Standards Save Lives.” This year’s focus is on the importance of food standards in preventing foodborne illnesses.

Foodborne illnesses are a major public health problem. Every year, an estimated 600 million people get sick from eating contaminated food. Of these, 420,000 people die. Foodborne illnesses can cause a wide range of symptoms, including vomiting, diarrhea, fever, and abdominal cramps. In severe cases, foodborne illnesses can lead to hospitalization or even death.

Food standards are a set of rules that help to ensure that food is safe to eat. These standards cover everything from how food is produced to how it is processed, packaged, and stored. Food standards are developed by governments, international organizations, and industry groups.

There are many benefits to following food standards. First, food standards help to protect public health. By preventing foodborne illnesses, food standards can save lives and reduce the burden on healthcare systems. Second, food standards help to ensure the quality and safety of food. This can boost consumer confidence and increase trade in food products. Third, food standards can help to protect the environment. By reducing food waste and promoting sustainable agricultural practices, food standards can help to protect the planet.

There are many things that can be done to improve food safety. Governments can strengthen food safety laws and regulations. Food producers can adopt good hygiene practices. Food retailers can ensure that food is properly stored and handled. And consumers can learn about food safety and make safe food choices.

World Food Safety Day is a reminder of the importance of food safety. By working together, we can help to prevent foodborne illnesses and make food safe for everyone.

Here are some additional tips for food safety:

• Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water before and after handling food.
• Cook food to the proper temperature.
• Refrigerate food promptly after cooking.
• Do not eat raw or undercooked meat, poultry, or seafood.
• Wash fruits and vegetables before eating them.
• Avoid cross-contamination by keeping raw meat, poultry, and seafood separate from other foods.
• Throw away any food that has been left out for more than two hours.

By following these simple tips, you can help to keep yourself and your family safe from foodborne illness.