FAO Calls for Reliable Data to Enhance Food Safety

The Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) advocates for reliable data to combat unsafe food, as stated by FAO Director-General Dr. Qu Dongyu during the observance of the 2026 World Food Safety Day on June 7.

The theme for this year's celebration underscores the necessity of scientific evidence in developing effective policies to improve food safety globally. Dr.

Dongyu noted that foodborne diseases can affect anyone, anywhere, and understanding the scale of the problem is crucial for governments and businesses to implement focused measures. He emphasized that merely gathering data is insufficient and highlighted the FAO's role in supporting the development and implementation of international food safety standards within a health framework.

The organization continues to assist member countries in strengthening their national food safety systems and prioritizing risk management through an evidence-based approach. Dr.

Dongyu reiterated that food safety is a shared responsibility and called for governments to utilize available data to formulate effective policies while encouraging food businesses to adopt safer practices.