“The World Health Organization (WHO) and the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) have issued a joint statement in South Africa marking World Food Safety Day 2026, stressing that safe food is essential for nutrition, livelihoods, and sustainable development. They call for stronger surveillance, risk-based inspections, and coordinated action across the food chain to protect families and ensure healthier lives.”
Food safety has emerged as one of the most pressing public health and nutrition challenges in South Africa, as highlighted in a joint statement by the World Health Organization (WHO) and the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) on World Food Safety Day 2026. The organizations emphasized that unsafe food undermines nutrition, disrupts livelihoods, and threatens economic growth, while safe food is the cornerstone of healthy communities and sustainable development.
Why Food Safety Matters
Unsafe food can cause illnesses that disrupt family life, reduce school attendance, and lower productivity. In South Africa, foodborne diseases remain a significant burden, affecting both urban and rural populations. The WHO and FAO stressed that food safety is not just a health issue—it is also an agricultural, environmental, and economic issue.
The One Health Approach
The statement underscored the importance of the One Health approach, which recognizes the interconnectedness of human, animal, and plant health. By strengthening animal and plant health systems, South Africa can reduce risks of contamination, pests, and diseases that compromise food safety. This integrated perspective is vital for preventing outbreaks and ensuring that food remains both nutritious and safe.
Practical Actions Recommended
WHO and FAO outlined several key actions for South Africa:
- Strengthen foodborne disease surveillance to detect and respond to risks early.
- Support risk-based inspections across the food chain, focusing on high-risk areas.
- Promote a culture of safety among food businesses, farmers, and consumers.
- Invest in laboratories and health workers to improve detection and reporting.
These measures are designed to build resilience in the food system and protect vulnerable populations, especially children, who are most affected by unsafe food.
Economic and Social Implications
Food safety is also critical for South Africa’s economy. Tourism, exports, and local businesses depend on consumer confidence in the food system. Unsafe food can damage trade relationships and reduce competitiveness in global markets. Conversely, strong food safety standards can enhance South Africa’s reputation and open new opportunities for growth.
Voices from WHO and FAO
Shenaaz El-Halabi, WHO Representative in South Africa, stated: “Food safety is a foundation of public health. When food is safe, families are protected, children can grow and learn, and communities can thrive.”
Dr. Babagana Ahmadu, FAO Representative, added: “Safe food starts with healthy animals and healthy plants. Food safety is everyone’s responsibility and a cornerstone of sustainable development.”
Broader Context
Globally, unsafe food causes millions of illnesses annually, with children under five disproportionately affected. In South Africa, the challenge is compounded by socio-economic inequalities, limited access to healthcare in rural areas, and gaps in food safety infrastructure. Addressing these issues requires coordinated action across government, private sector, and civil society.
Conclusion
The WHO–FAO statement serves as a wake-up call for South Africa to prioritize food safety as part of its nutrition and health agenda. By investing in surveillance, inspections, and education, the country can protect its citizens, strengthen its economy, and ensure that every meal nourishes rather than harms.
