World Food Safety Day
Safe food, better health — food safety starts with each of us.
About
World Food Safety Day on June 7 draws attention to the prevention, detection, and management of foodborne risks, contributing to food security, human health, economic prosperity, and sustainable development. An estimated 600 million people — nearly 1 in 10 people in the world — fall ill after eating contaminated food each year, and 420,000 die as a result. Children under 5 years of age carry 40% of the foodborne disease burden.
History
The United Nations General Assembly designated June 7 as World Food Safety Day in December 2018, on a joint proposal by the WHO and FAO. The first observance was held in 2019. The day aligns with the Codex Alimentarius Commission — the international food standards body — which has operated under FAO and WHO since 1963.
Where It's Observed
Cultural Context
US United States
Food safety recalls and contamination scares are regular news events in the US. The FDA and USDA use World Food Safety Day to promote awareness of the Food Safety Modernization Act (FSMA) and proper food handling at home and in commercial kitchens.
KR South Korea
South Korea has a sophisticated food safety regulatory system, but incidents involving agricultural chemicals and processed food additives occasionally surface. The day prompts consumer education on reading labels, proper storage, and understanding Korea's food traceability system.
JP Japan
Japan's food safety culture is world-renowned — from strict sushi freshness standards to meticulous allergen labelling. World Food Safety Day reinforces food hygiene education, highlights the challenges of food imports, and examines Japan's complex relationship with food self-sufficiency.
How to Participate
- 01Review proper food storage and refrigerator temperatures at home
- 02Learn the '2-hour rule' for perishable foods left at room temperature
- 03Check for recent food safety recalls in your region
- 04Practise proper handwashing before cooking — 20 seconds with soap
Frequently asked questions
When is World Food Safety Day?+
World Food Safety Day is observed annually on June 7. The date is fixed each year — June 7 — and does not shift based on the lunar calendar or weekday.
What is World Food Safety Day?+
World Food Safety Day on June 7 draws attention to the prevention, detection, and management of foodborne risks, contributing to food security, human health, economic prosperity, and sustainable development. An estimated 600 million people — nearly 1 in 10 people in the world — fall ill after eating…
Is World Food Safety Day a public holiday?+
World Food Safety Day is an international observance or awareness day, not a public holiday in most countries. It does not typically result in days off work or school closures, though some countries and organisations hold official events.
How can I participate in World Food Safety Day?+
Review proper food storage and refrigerator temperatures at home Learn the '2-hour rule' for perishable foods left at room temperature Check for recent food safety recalls in your region These are some of the most accessible ways to engage with the day's purpose.
Which countries observe World Food Safety Day?+
Global — WHO/FAO initiative.
Mark the date
Download a free printable calendar for 2026 and never miss World Food Safety Day.