"Food Standards Save Lives:" International Food Safety Day marked in Armenia

The Food and Agriculture Organization of United Nations (FAO), in partnership with the Ministry of Economy of Armenia, UN World Health Organization (WHO) and the Strategic Development Agency (SDA) organized a conference to mark World Food Safety Day (7 June). Under the theme "Food Standards Save Lives," the event highlighted the critical role of food standards in ensuring public health and promoting safe trade practices.

The conference brought together experts, policymakers, and partners from various sectors to discuss the significance of food standards in protecting consumers and fostering sustainable food systems. As we mark the 60th anniversary of the FAO–WHO Codex Alimentarius Commission, or "Food Code," a special reference was made to the importance of following the provisions outlined in it.

Armenia’s Deputy Minister of Economy Ashkhen Shirvanyan and Deputy Minister of Health Lena Nanushyan, FAO Representative in Armenia Raimund Jehle, Special Representative of the WHO Regional Director to Armenia Marthe Everard, representatives from the Food Safety Inspection Body and others made opening remarks.

“By adhering to globally recommended food standards, we can ensure the safety of food, and safeguard the well-being of individuals and communities, while also contributing to the sustainable development of our societies. As we mark the 60th anniversary of the Codex Alimentarius Commission, we acknowledge the significant progress made in defining the path to safe food for everyone, everywhere, all times,” said FAO Representative Raimund Jehle in his video message. “Together, we can ensure that food standards continue to save lives and pave the way for safe, nutritious, and resilient food systems that benefit us all.”

The conference served as an opportunity to deepen the participants’ understanding of the importance of food safety and role of all involved sectors. Exchanging knowledge and experiences contributed to identifying innovative solutions and best practices that will propel them towards achieving the Sustainable Development Goals and creating a sustainable and inclusive future. Participants explored the ways in which food standards contribute to promoting health, preventing foodborne diseases, and supporting sustainable development.

The conference also recognized outstanding contributions to food safety and honoured individuals and organizations for their remarkable achievements in this field.

Facts and figures

One in ten people worldwide falls ill from contaminated food each year. It affects all countries.

Over 200 diseases are caused by eating food contaminated with bacteria, viruses, parasites or chemical substances such as heavy metals.

Children under 5 make up 9 percent of the population but carry 40 percent of the foodborne disease burden.

Food safety standards protect the lives of all, and the livelihoods of many. They establish the criteria which food should meet to protect consumers and establish confidence in the product.

The Codex Alimentarius Commission has been setting international food standards for 60 years. The Codex Alimentarius, or "Food Code" is a collection of standards, guidelines and codes of practice adopted by the Codex Alimentarius Commission. The Commission was established by FAO and WHO.