Brief History of the Holiday

World Food Safety Day was established by the United Nations in 2018 to address the critical issue of food safety. The day underscores the significance of ensuring that food is safe to eat and free from contamination, which is vital for public health. The initiative seeks to promote best practices in food handling and production to prevent foodborne illnesses and protect global health.

How It's Celebrated

World Food Safety Day is marked by a variety of activities and events worldwide. These include educational campaigns, community outreach programs, and public discussions focused on food safety practices. Governments, international organizations, and non-governmental organizations often collaborate to organize workshops, seminars, and awareness campaigns. Social media is also a key platform for spreading information about food safety and engaging with the public on this important issue.

World Food Safety Day

Interesting Facts

• A Wide Range of Illnesses.Over 250 different foodborne illnesses are recognized globally, each posing unique health risks.
• Freezing’s Role in Safety. Freezing food can effectively inhibit or even halt bacterial growth, enhancing food safety.
• Complexity of Food Pathogens. Pathogens responsible for food poisoning are capable of causing severe conditions such as kidney failure, arthritis, and meningitis.
• Risk of Can Openers. Unclean can openers are a significant source of foodborne illness, often due to the residue of food left behind.
• Temperature Matters. To maintain food safety, it’s crucial to store food at proper temperatures—either hot or cold—to avoid the risk of contamination.