Recent years have seen a significant increase in the incidence of
chemical and biological food poisoning in both developed and developing
nations. Several factors including loopholes in current regulations,
extensive pesticide use, and new strains of bacteria are responsible for
this trend.
The food industry is also ridden by myths that undermine food safety at various levels. Here are the top five myths that contribute to the problem:
Food Poisoning Isn't a Big Deal - Most people believe that an upset stomach is the only consequence of unhygienic food. However, the World Health Organization estimates that there are more than 200 different types of food-borne illnesses that kill millions of people across the globe each year. More than 3,000 Americans die annually after consuming contaminated food, while many others suffer from chronic health issues such as kidney failure, arthritis and brain damage.
Antibiotic use is Rampant in the Meat Industry - Antibiotic use is one of the big issues impacting the meat industry, especially in the West. Most countries have regulatory bodies that work closely with farmers and veterinarians to minimize the use of antimicrobial agents while keeping livestock safe and healthy. However, widespread misinformation about antibiotic use in meat production has led to creation of new regulations which can have a potentially damaging influence on the industry and increase the risk of meat contamination.
Genetically Engineered Foods are Better and Safer - Genetic engineering does not improve the flavour or the nutritious value of the food. It does not lower pesticide consumption either. In fact, most experts believe that consumers do not benefit from it in any way. The products, however, are financially viable and beneficial to large corporations and some farmers.
Irradiation is Unsafe and Unnecessary - Irradiated foods have been tested extensively in the laboratory and found to be safe. Several reputed organizations including the American
Medical Association and the World Health Organization support it. Research has also indicated that though irradiation is not a replacement for good manufacturing practices, even "clean" processing facilities benefit from it.
Organic Food is Safe for You and for the Environment - While organic produce does not contain pesticides, it is not sterile. Many consumers skip washing organic fruits and vegetables before eating which can lead to gastrointestinal infections. Organic farming does not produce toxic waste but it is less productive when compared to conventional farming.
This can translate into more water and land usage. Most large corporations, therefore, import organic ingredients from other countries instead of relying on locally grown produce.
More research and awareness programs are essential. Professionals trained in food safety are in high demand, especially in food and supplement industries. Government agencies also seek their services to create awareness about the issue. Many students pursuing pharmaceutical courses consider food safety certification programs with specific goals in mind.
Effective and reasonable food safety practices play an important role in improving the overall quality of life. Farmers, food processing industries, regulatory agencies and governments should collaborate and develop such strategies for the future.
The food industry is also ridden by myths that undermine food safety at various levels. Here are the top five myths that contribute to the problem:
Food Poisoning Isn't a Big Deal - Most people believe that an upset stomach is the only consequence of unhygienic food. However, the World Health Organization estimates that there are more than 200 different types of food-borne illnesses that kill millions of people across the globe each year. More than 3,000 Americans die annually after consuming contaminated food, while many others suffer from chronic health issues such as kidney failure, arthritis and brain damage.
Antibiotic use is Rampant in the Meat Industry - Antibiotic use is one of the big issues impacting the meat industry, especially in the West. Most countries have regulatory bodies that work closely with farmers and veterinarians to minimize the use of antimicrobial agents while keeping livestock safe and healthy. However, widespread misinformation about antibiotic use in meat production has led to creation of new regulations which can have a potentially damaging influence on the industry and increase the risk of meat contamination.
Genetically Engineered Foods are Better and Safer - Genetic engineering does not improve the flavour or the nutritious value of the food. It does not lower pesticide consumption either. In fact, most experts believe that consumers do not benefit from it in any way. The products, however, are financially viable and beneficial to large corporations and some farmers.
Irradiation is Unsafe and Unnecessary - Irradiated foods have been tested extensively in the laboratory and found to be safe. Several reputed organizations including the American
Medical Association and the World Health Organization support it. Research has also indicated that though irradiation is not a replacement for good manufacturing practices, even "clean" processing facilities benefit from it.
Organic Food is Safe for You and for the Environment - While organic produce does not contain pesticides, it is not sterile. Many consumers skip washing organic fruits and vegetables before eating which can lead to gastrointestinal infections. Organic farming does not produce toxic waste but it is less productive when compared to conventional farming.
This can translate into more water and land usage. Most large corporations, therefore, import organic ingredients from other countries instead of relying on locally grown produce.
More research and awareness programs are essential. Professionals trained in food safety are in high demand, especially in food and supplement industries. Government agencies also seek their services to create awareness about the issue. Many students pursuing pharmaceutical courses consider food safety certification programs with specific goals in mind.
Effective and reasonable food safety practices play an important role in improving the overall quality of life. Farmers, food processing industries, regulatory agencies and governments should collaborate and develop such strategies for the future.
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