Astana, Kazakhstan – To commemorate World Food Safety Day on 7 June 2024, the Islamic Organization for Food Security (IOFS) hosted a collaborative webinar titled “Safe Food, Better Health” within the framework of the Healthy and Safe Food Ecosystem Program. The webinar aimed to raise awareness, foster collaboration, and drive action towards ensuring food safety for improved health outcomes, particularly within the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) Member States.
IOFS gathered participants and speakers from the government, public health organizations, research institutions, and representatives from international agencies and organizations involved in food safety initiatives.
Prof. Dr. Zulfiqar Ali, Director of the Programs and Projects Department at IOFS, delivered the opening remarks, emphasizing the importance of food safety and the collaborative effort required to ensure it. He highlighted the significance of food standards in maintaining trust and promoting informed consumer choices and called on participants to contribute to the mission of the IOFS in ensuring food security within the OIC geography.
The keynote speaker was Mr. Ehsaan Ovut, Secretary General of SMIIC Turkey, who highlighted the role of SMIIC and OIC/SMIIC standards in ensuring food safety and halal compliance among OIC Member States. Dr. Arif Khaja from ATYAB discussed initiatives in Central Asia to enhance food safety standards and support regional trade. Professor Dr. Mohammad Shoeb of the Bangladesh Food Safety Authority outlines Bangladesh's approach to food safety, emphasizing regulations, risk assessment, and technological innovations. Dr. Hanene BEN ISMAIL from the University of Carthage details Tunisia's strategic priorities for food safety, based on stringent standards
Following the presentations, a panel discussion delved into the challenges, best practices, and opportunities in ensuring food safety for better health outcomes. A concluding interactive Q&A session provided participants with the opportunity to engage with experts and address queries.
