The Yemeni Organization for Standardization, Metrology, and Quality Control celebrated World Food Safety Day this year under the theme “Food Safety: Prepare for the Unexpected.” This theme underscores the importance of raising awareness about food safety and being ready for unforeseen food safety incidents and foodborne diseases.
Engineer Hadid Al-Mas, the Director-General of the Organization, highlighted in his speech the critical role of World Food Safety Day in educating the public about food safety issues. He emphasized that early prevention and detection of foodborne diseases are vital. Collaboration among all stakeholders, including government bodies, food producers, and consumers, is essential to improve food safety standards.
The Organization has been proactive in enhancing food safety through ongoing training courses and workshops designed to improve the skills and efficiency of its specialists and technicians. Media campaigns have also been launched to educate consumers about the importance of following food safety procedures. Given the current challenges facing Yemen, prioritizing food security is crucial to limiting the spread of diseases and epidemics.
The Yemeni Organization adheres strictly to the food safety standards set by the Codex Alimentarius, relying on rigorous, science-based procedures to ensure food safety. This includes continuous monitoring and laboratory testing of both imported and locally manufactured food products and agricultural goods to ensure they meet approved standards. The Organization also monitors the transportation and storage methods of highly perishable items such as chicken, frozen meat, baby food, and specialized dietary products to ensure they comply with necessary requirements.
In a country facing significant challenges, ensuring food safety is more important than ever. By fostering awareness and cooperation and adhering to strict safety standards, Yemen can better prepare for unexpected food safety issues and protect the health of its population. This proactive approach not only safeguards public health but also builds a foundation for greater resilience in the face of future challenges.