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On World Food Safety Day 2025 observed on Saturday, June 7, the World Health Organisation (WHO) is highlighting the role of scientific research and innovation in ensuring food safety.
Scientists contribute to understanding the risks to human health from known, emerging and anticipated food contaminants in many ways. They conduct rigorous research to generate reliable evidence which helps policy-makers, food businesses and consumers make informed and safe decisions.
The burden of foodborne diseases is significant yet largely preventable. Foodborne diseases affect individuals across all age groups, but particularly children under 5 and the vulnerable. The Eastern Mediterranean Region is at a critical point in efforts to ensure that all individuals have access to safe and nutritious food supplies.
The situation is made even more urgent by fast-evolving climate change and environmental pollution, the surge in urbanisation, population growth and shifts in lifestyle and consumption patterns. These factors are increasing human exposure to harmful chemical compounds, antimicrobial residues and drug-resistant foodborne pathogens.
The health implications and associated economic costs of foodborne diseases are substantial. They include expenses related to medical treatment, child development, lost productivity, export restrictions and market loss.
The World Health Assembly – WHA73.5 (2020) “Strengthening efforts on food safety” – has mandated WHO to update estimates of the global foodborne disease burden. By offering detailed insights into the incidence, mortality and disease burden expressed in disability-adjusted life years (DALYs) and providing a comprehensive overview of the impact of these foodborne diseases, WHO plays a crucial role in guiding public health strategies and ensuring safer food practices worldwide.
In the Eastern Mediterranean Region, improving food safety requires robust commitment to scientific research. By strategically harnessing scientific advances and actively cultivating regional and international collaborations, the Region can enhance food safety and quality, help protect public health and drive economic sustainability forward.
Through collaboration – sharing knowledge, resources and innovations – the WHO says it establishes a environment that ensures compliance with food safety regulations and drives significant progress.
“Our unwavering commitment to science-based food safety paves the way to a healthier and safer future for all,” adds the UN body.
