World Food Safety Day 2025 underscores scientific role in protecting public health

CAIRO, Egypt, 6 June 2025: The World Health Organization (WHO) marked World Food Safety Day 2025 by emphasising the vital role of science and innovation in ensuring food safety, particularly across the Eastern Mediterranean Region.

In a Press Release issued on the occasion, the WHO said that scientific research is essential in identifying and understanding risks posed by both known and emerging food contaminants. The organisation stated that rigorous research enables the generation of reliable evidence, helping policy-makers, food businesses and consumers make informed decisions on food safety.

According to the WHO, foodborne diseases remain a significant and largely preventable burden, affecting all age groups but particularly impacting children under five and vulnerable populations. The organisation said the challenge is especially urgent in the Eastern Mediterranean Region, where factors such as climate change, environmental pollution, urbanisation, population growth and shifting consumption patterns are intensifying exposure to chemical contaminants, antimicrobial residues and drug-resistant pathogens.

The WHO noted that the health consequences and economic costs of foodborne illness are considerable. The organisation added that these include medical expenses, reduced productivity, developmental impairments in children and constraints on international trade due to market restrictions.

In reference to the World Health Assembly resolution WHA73.5 (2020) on strengthening food safety efforts, the WHO reported that it is currently updating estimates of the global foodborne disease burden. The WHO said the updated assessment will include data on incidence, mortality and disability-adjusted life years (DALYs), with the aim of informing targeted public health strategies.

The WHO stated that in order to advance food safety in the Eastern Mediterranean Region, greater investment in scientific research and stronger regional and international collaboration are needed. The organisation added that science-based approaches can enhance public health outcomes and promote long-term economic sustainability.

According to the WHO, collaborative knowledge-sharing and innovation are key to creating a regulatory and operational environment that supports compliance and accelerates progress. The organisation concluded that its ongoing commitment to science-led food safety lays the foundation for a healthier and safer future.