President urges stakeholders to promote safe food practices

ISLAMABAD, (APP - UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 6th Jun, 2026) President Asif Ali Zardari encouraged all stakeholders to promote safe food practices and strengthen compliance with food safety standards across the entire food chain and said through shared responsibility, informed action and sustained commitment it could be ensured that safe, nutritious and wholesome food was available to all.

In a message on World Food Safety observed on 7 June 2026, he said, "I join the international community in highlighting the importance of safe food for public health, food security and sustainable development."

"Proclaimed by the United Nations in 2018, this observance is led jointly by the Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO) and the World Health Organisation (WHO) to promote awareness and action on food safety worldwide," he added.

He said, "The theme for World Food Safety Day 2026, 'From burden to solutions – safe food everywhere', draws attention to the role of science, data and evidence-based interventions in reducing the burden of foodborne diseases and improving food safety outcomes. It reminds us that informed decisions and practical solutions are essential to protecting people from preventable health risks."

"Food safety affects the daily lives of millions of people. Every family expects that the food purchased from markets, served in restaurants, prepared in schools or consumed at home is safe and fit to eat. When food safety standards are not maintained, the consequences can include illness, lost income, additional healthcare costs and disruption to education and work.

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Protecting consumers from these risks is therefore both a public health responsibility and a matter of public trust," he remarked.

The President said, "Ensuring safe food requires the collective efforts of governments, regulatory authorities, producers, processors, transporters, retailers, food handlers and consumers. Safe food protects health, strengthens consumer confidence, supports livelihoods and contributes to economic growth. It also helps reduce the burden of foodborne diseases, particularly among vulnerable groups including children, pregnant and lactating women and older persons."

"In an increasingly interconnected food system, effective food safety measures must be based on science, transparency and internationally recognised standards. Strengthening inspection systems, laboratory capacity, traceability, surveillance mechanisms and hygiene practices remains essential for reducing risks and safeguarding public health. Continued cooperation among all relevant institutions is necessary to ensure that food safety standards are effectively implemented and maintained," he noted.

He said, "World Food Safety Day also highlights the contribution of food safety to sustainable development, public health and trade. Investment in food safety infrastructure, awareness programmes and modern regulatory systems can help build stronger and more resilient food systems while enhancing consumer protection."