Senator the Hon Richard Colbeck
Minister for Senior Australians and Aged Care Services, Minister for Sport
World Food Safety Day is an opportunity to recognise Australia's contributions in providing safe, premium food for consumers here and abroad.
Minister for Agriculture, Drought and Emergency Management David Littleproud said food integrity and safety was everyone's business.
"As a major food exporter, Australia has an outstanding reputation as a trusted and reliable supplier in international markets," Minister Littleproud said
"Underpinned by strong food safety standards, our farmers and food processors continue to provide confidence to the domestic and international community with strong food safety controls to deliver food that remains safe and reliable.
"We're always looking to improve our food regulatory system to ensure it remains robust and agile into the future.
"One way we are doing this is through chairing the Codex Committee on Food Import and Export Inspection and Certification Systems which is currently meeting virtually.
"The committee provides guidance and a trusted framework for efficient and transparent inspection and certification systems, which are vital for open trade in reliable and safe foodstuffs.
Senator Richard Colbeck, who has portfolio responsibility for food regulation, said production and consumption of high-quality, safe product had immediate and long-term benefits for individuals, the economy and the rest of the world.
"World Food Safety Day draws global attention to need to prevent, detect and manage foodborne risks and highlights importance of access to safe, healthy and nutritious food," Minister Colbeck said.
"Our food safety standards are among the highest in the world.
"Australia prides itself in implementing effective food safety standards throughout food production and distribution chains to ensure the safety and quality of Australian produce.
"The COVID-19 pandemic reinforced the importance of strong food safety systems.
"We will continue to be a key producer of high quality, safe, reliable and globally recognised food products."
Fast Facts:
- This year marks the third United Nations World Food Safety Day.
- The theme this year's is 'Safe food today for a healthy tomorrow'.
- Foodborne diseases are a major inhibitor to growth and development in children.
- Codex Committee on Food Import and Export Inspection and Certification Systems 25th meeting is being hosted virtually by Australia over 7 days. Australia has chaired the committee since 1992.
