Food is a basic necessity of life, but millions of people worldwide face significant difficulties in accessing adequate and safe food. According to the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) of the United Nations, approximately 690 million people worldwide are struggling with hunger. Every day, millions of people cannot access sufficient and nutritious food. This highlights how critical food security and safety are.
Climate change has devastating effects on food security. Extreme weather events, droughts, floods, and heatwaves adversely affect agricultural production and disrupt food supply chains. This reduces farmers' productivity, threatens their livelihoods, and leads to fluctuations in food prices.
Farmers worldwide face significant challenges due to climate change and economic uncertainties. Especially small-scale farmers cannot sustain their productivity and support their families when they lack adequate resources and support. This increases rural poverty and jeopardizes food security.
The COVID-19 pandemic has caused serious disruptions in food supply chains. Factory closures, labor shortages, and logistical issues have adversely affected food supply and increased food prices. This has deeply affected low-income households and vulnerable groups.
World Food Safety Day is celebrated on June 7 each year to raise awareness and take action to prevent, detect, and manage foodborne risks to improve human health.
As we celebrate World Food Safety Day, it is important to address the current state of food security and the steps we need to take to secure a healthier future.
Significant advancements in science and technology in the global food industry have increased the nutritional value of food products and ensured their quality and safety. Ensuring technical standards and safety in food quality and control is crucial.
According to the World Food Programme, reducing food waste could feed approximately two billion people each year and enable about 815 million people to lead healthy, active lives.
Quality control from raw materials is the first step in preventing waste. Thorough selection and examination of grains, seeds, oilseeds, and legumes from the field are key to maintaining quality standards in subsequent stages.
Today, on World Food Safety Day, we once again emphasize the importance of food safety and security. In our quarter-century journey, we take pride in being the first and only Research and Innovation center operating with 52 types of food quality control devices and 35 types of flour additives enhancing the taste of 35 types of food. Our group company, Expert Laboratory Services, as Turkey's first and largest authorized classifier firm, conducts 300,000 tests annually and meticulously classifies 3 million tons of grains, oilseeds, and legumes with our team of 195 engineers who are experts in their fields. With our Alınteri company, we carry out the storage of 3 million tons of grains, oilseeds, and legumes, supporting the efforts of our farmers. With ICC Standard methods 189 and 192, we continue to lead in food safety and security in Turkey and globally. Under the umbrella of Bastak Academy, we are shaping the future of food with our dear students and university collaborations.
Today, on World Food Safety Day, we once again want to emphasize the importance of food safety and security. Let's build a safer, healthier, and more sustainable future together. Food safety is everyone's responsibility, and by working together, we can achieve this goal. Remember, a safer food system means a healthier and happier world. Happy World Food Safety Day!
