World Food Safety Day: Forum on Implementing Science in Action
TASHKENT, May 19, 2025 – An event titled "Food Safety: Science in Action" was held today at Secondary School No. 9 in the Yunusabad district of Tashkent to mark World Food Safety Day.
The forum was organized by the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) in collaboration with the Ministry of Preschool and School Education of the Republic of Uzbekistan, the "Zamin" International Public Foundation, the "Eco-Schools Uzbekistan" program, and the "Yosh fermer" (Young Farmer) project.
The event convened specialists from the food industry, scientific experts, academic professionals, educators, and school students to discuss the critical role of food safety in public health, education, and economic development. Participants emphasized that foodborne illnesses—caused by contamination with harmful bacteria, chemicals, fungi, or parasites—can result in more than 200 types of diseases, many of which are preventable through scientific knowledge and effective safety practices.
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), an estimated 600 million people globally fall ill each year due to the consumption of unsafe food. Of these, 420,000 die, including 125,000 children under the age of five. These statistics underscore the urgent necessity of strengthening food safety systems worldwide.
It was highlighted that all stakeholders in the food supply chain—from producers and processors to distributors, retailers, and consumers—must adhere to rigorous food safety standards to prevent health risks and ensure safe food for all.
As a highlight of the forum, the school's state-of-the-art greenhouse facility hosted a specialized masterclass for students and educators on sustainable agricultural practices and food safety protocols. The masterclass demonstrated practical applications of scientific principles in controlled growing environments.
Participants received hands-on training from agricultural experts and food safety specialists, providing them with applicable skills to implement in both educational and community settings.
As part of the forum, interactive sessions, expert-led lectures, and visual presentations were organized to enhance students' understanding of food safety issues. The sessions emphasized the importance of integrating science, education, and technology to reduce risks and protect public health.
In addition, a drawing competition dedicated to World Food Safety Day was held among students from 22 schools in Tashkent. The winners were formally recognized during the event, with their work reflecting thoughtful interpretations of food safety themes. Prizes and diplomas were awarded to the top entries, while all participants received commemorative gifts in acknowledgment of their contributions.
About World Food Safety Day
World Food Safety Day, observed annually on June 7 at the initiative of FAO and WHO, serves as a global platform to raise awareness of food safety issues and promote coordinated action. It reinforces the importance of anticipating and managing food-related risks in order to safeguard human health, support sustainable agriculture, maintain access to markets, and contribute to broader sustainable development objectives.
