Every year, on June 7th, we celebrate World Food Safety Day. This special day, established by the United Nations, is dedicated to highlighting the importance of safe food and raising awareness about the global need to ensure that what we eat is safe and healthy. Food safety is everyone’s business – from farmers and producers to governments, businesses, and consumers. Let’s dive into why World Food Safety Day is crucial and take a closer look at the state of food safety in Kenya and around the world.
Why is World Food Safety Day Important?
Food safety is essential for health and well-being. Unsafe food containing harmful bacteria, viruses, parasites, or chemicals causes more than 200 diseases, ranging from diarrhoea to different cancers. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), an estimated 600 million – almost 1 in 10 people in the world – fall ill after eating contaminated food, and 420,000 die every year. This staggering statistic explains the vital need for robust food safety measures. Nevertheless, research done by the Consumer Grassroots Association in 2020 shows that 9 in 10 consumers express concern over the level of food safety in Kenya. Moreover, food safety has economic implications. Contaminated food hampers international trade and tourism, leading to significant economic losses. For farmers and food producers, maintaining food safety standards can open doors to global markets, driving economic growth and development.
Global State of Food Safety
Globally, food safety remains a significant challenge with both developed and developing countries grappling with issues. Even in countries with advanced food safety systems, outbreaks of foodborne illnesses still occur. For example, the United States frequently deals with outbreaks related to leafy greens and other fresh produce. In many developing nations, food safety is compromised by inadequate infrastructure, lack of regulatory enforcement, and poor hygiene practices. These countries often face higher rates of foodborne illnesses and deaths. In addition, changing climate conditions are also affecting food safety worldwide. Higher temperatures can increase the prevalence of foodborne pathogens, while extreme weather events can disrupt food production and supply chains.
Food Safety in Kenya
In Kenya, food safety is a critical issue affecting millions of people. The country faces several challenges, including;
• Contamination. In Kenya, food contamination often occurs at various stages – from production and handling to storage and transportation. Poor hygiene practices, inadequate infrastructure, and limited access to clean water contribute to the problem.
• Aflatoxins. A major concern in Kenya is aflatoxin contamination, particularly in maize, a staple food. Aflatoxins are toxic compounds produced by certain fungi and can cause serious health issues, including liver cancer.
• Regulatory Gaps. While Kenya has made strides in improving food safety regulations, gaps still exist. Enforcement of food safety laws is often weak due to limited resources and insufficient training of inspectors.
• Consumer Awareness. Many consumers in Kenya lack awareness about food safety. Education and awareness campaigns are needed to inform the public about proper food handling and storage practices to prevent foodborne illnesses.
The Way Forward
Ensuring food safety requires a multi-faceted approach involving all stakeholders.
• Government Action. Governments must strengthen food safety regulations, improve infrastructure, and ensure strict enforcement of laws. Investing in training for food inspectors and providing resources for proper food safety management is crucial.
• Private Sector. Businesses involved in food production, processing, and distribution must adhere to high food safety standards. Implementing good agricultural and manufacturing practices, conducting regular inspections, and ensuring traceability can significantly reduce contamination risks.
• Consumer Responsibility. Consumers also play a vital role. Being informed about food safety practices, such as proper cooking and storage methods, can help prevent foodborne illnesses. Supporting local farmers who practice safe and sustainable farming can also make a difference.
• International Cooperation. Food safety is a global issue requiring international collaboration. Sharing knowledge, resources, and best practices can help build stronger food safety systems worldwide.
To conclude, World Food Safety Day is a reminder that safe food is essential for good health, economic prosperity, and overall well-being. By understanding the challenges and working together, we can ensure that everyone has access to safe, nutritious food. As we celebrate this day, let’s commit to making food safety a priority every day – for ourselves, our communities, and future generations. Safe food today means a healthier tomorrow for all.
