WHO
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Food safety

    Overview
    Foodborne diseases take a major toll on health, with millions of European estimated to fall ill and many dying every year as a result of eating or handling unsafe food. Food safety is hence recognized as an essential aspect of public health.
    Impact

    Ingestion and handling of contaminated food causes significant illness and death worldwide. Across the WHO European Region, foodborne diseases are very common, even in the most developed countries, and represent a significant burden for public health. Outbreaks of foodborne disease are likely to also have economic implications, as they often involve commercially produced products.

    WHO response

    WHO/Europe supports countries in building capacity to manage food safety challenges from food handling and production at any level, including those stemming from increased international trade. 

    Related WHO collaborating centres

    WHO collaborating centres are institutions that form an international collaborative network carrying out activities to support WHO’s programmes at all levels. They provide an opportunity for WHO to utilize their inherent expertise for the benefit of all Member States.

    View the list of related collaborating centres

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