World Food Safet Day observed

Aligarh : Guests and Speakers gathered to raise awareness about the importance of preventing, detecting and managing foodborne risks at a programme organized by the Department of Post Harvest Engineering and Technology, Aligarh Muslim University, marking the World Food Safety Day and underlining the theme, “Food Standards Save Lives.”

The chief guest, Mr. Sarvesh Mishra, Assistant Commissioner-II (Food), Food Safety and Drug Administration, Aligarh, highlighted the critical role played by the government in ensuring food inspection, safety, training, and public awareness. He emphasized the need for sustainable food systems and stressed the significance of a coordinated and collaborative approach to food safety.

The guest of honour, Mr. Syed Ebadullah, Senior Food Safety Officer, FDA Collectorate, shed light on the progress made in food safety measures while acknowledging the challenges that still require attention and exemplified the importance of maintaining fat and SNF (Solid-Not-Fat) standards using the example of market milk.

Dr. Z. R. A. A. Azad, the Chairperson of the department, underscored the theme, “Food Standards Save Lives”, and emphasized that World Food Safety Day plays a vital role in ensuring adherence to food standards, consequently promoting optimal health for all consumers.

Prof. Rais Ahmad, the Dean of the Faculty of Agricultural Sciences, drew attention to the distressing reality that millions of people worldwide continue to suffer from foodborne illnesses, leading to numerous fatalities. He emphasized that sustained efforts and investments are crucial to improving food safety and preventing such unfortunate occurrences.

Dr. Rayees Ul Islam stressed on the urgent need for collective action to safeguard public health and highlighted the potential risks associated with compromised food safety.

Proceedings were conducted by Dr. Nazia Tabassum and the vote of thanks was extended by Ms. Sadia Firdaus.