Dubai Municipality Hosts Third Food Safety Forum to Bolster Global Standards
Dubai Municipality convened the third Dubai Food Safety Forum on World Food Safety Day, themed 'Food Safety: Prepare for the Unexpected,' uniting global experts to advance science-driven food safety policies and strengthen supply chain resilience.
Held in Dubai, the event drew representatives from the UAE Ministry of Climate Change and Environment, the UN's Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO), and key public, private, and academic stakeholders. Discussions centered on leveraging science-based surveillance to enhance food system sustainability and empower informed consumer choices.
Eng. Marwan Ahmed Bin Ghalita, Director General of Dubai Municipality, emphasized the Forum's role as a scientific platform to anticipate future challenges and build a smart, safe food ecosystem. 'Food safety starts with knowledge and excellence-driven solutions,'
he said, highlighting Dubai's commitment to global standards and community health.
Mohamed Saeed Al Nuaimi, Undersecretary of the Ministry, underscored the UAE's leadership in food safety, driven by its National Food Security Strategy 2051. Initiatives like the 'ZAD' food trade portal and Biosecurity Early Notification System reflect efforts to integrate digital tools and risk assessments, ensuring seamless trade and high safety standards.
Dr. Ahmed Mokhtar of FAO noted that foodborne illnesses impact 600 million people annually, costing billions. He praised the UAE's science-based approach, including a new strategic index for national food control systems developed with FAO.
The Forum also announced the 19th Dubai International Food Safety Conference, set for 17-19 November 2025 at the Dubai World Trade Centre, expecting over 3,000 global participants.
News Source: Emirates News Agency
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