The UN Food and Agriculture Organisation has said that reliable data on the health burden of unsafe food is the foundation for evidence-based policies, coordinated multisectoral action, and informed consumer choices.

FAO director-general QU Dongyu said this in his message to mark the 2026 World Food Safety Day, celebrated on June 7.

Mr Dongyu said foodborne diseases might affect everyone everywhere, and understanding the extent of the burden allows national authorities and business owners to take targeted action.

According to him, the 2026 theme of WFSD reminds the world that we need both evidence and solutions to make food safe, and it comes at a significant moment.

He said, “Science-based evidence on the global burden of foodborne disease, including scale and pattern, is critical to better understand where risks lie and which hazards have the greatest impact.

“But data alone is not enough. As we better understand the burden, we also need to focus on solutions. For FAO, this is critical. We support members in turning evidence into action: helping countries identify priorities, design targeted interventions, allocate limited resources more efficiently, and ensure effective decision-making. We work with countries to assess and strengthen their food control systems using innovative tools and approaches.”

Mr Dongyu said that FAO had been supporting the development and implementation of international standards within the One Health framework, recognising that the health of people is inseparable from that of animals, plants, and our shared environment.

He said the UN Food agency had been supporting its Members in strengthening the capacity development of their national systems to prioritise inspections and manage risks based on evidence.

“These efforts help reduce foodborne illness, protect public health, and support economic development.

“At the same time, we know that food safety is everyone’s business – everyone has a role to play. This has been our slogan every year since World Food Safety Day was established.

“Governments can translate data into effective enabling policies. Food businesses can improve their practices. And consumers can make informed choices to protect their health.

“Together, through sustained commitment and science-based solutions, we can reduce the burden of foodborne disease and ensure safe food for everyone, everywhere,’’ the FAO chief said. 

(NAN)