The World Health Organisation (WHO) annually observes World Food Safety Day on June 7 to spread awareness about foodborne diseases. According to a report by the agency, one in ten people are affected by food-related diseases each year. 

While food is the key to leading a long and healthy life, unhealthy and contaminated food can pose several health risks. Consuming food items that are poor in quality can cause diseases, deficiencies, mental illness, and impaired growth and development.

According to WHO, about 420,000 people die globally each year after consuming contaminated food items. Furthermore, children under the age of 5 “carry 40% of the foodborne disease burden,” which results in about 125,000 deaths annually.

History

World Food Safety came into being in 2018 when the United Nations General Assembly decided that it was necessary to raise awareness about several food issues across the globe. 

The World Health Organisation and Food and Agriculture Organisation of the United Nations (FAO) collaboratively introduced the annual occasion, according to a report by Hindustan Times.

Significance

World Food Safety Day is observed to encourage conversations that will help change food systems all around the world. This would help improve overall food quality, thus preventing diseases caused by unsafe/unhealthy food.

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The day also offers an opportunity to teach healthy eating habits to students in educational institutions through workshops and presentations.

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Theme

This year, the theme of World Food Safety Day is “Safer food, better health”. WHO has also started a campaign for the same.

How can I celebrate World Food Safety Day?

You can celebrate the day by analyzing your hygiene and cooking habits and introducing simple changes. You can also spread awareness about the day by engaging in insightful conversations surrounding food with friends and family.