The World Health Organization (WHO) has warned that unsafe food is responsible for an estimated 1.5 million deaths annually worldwide, underscoring the continuing global challenge of food safety and public health protection.
The agency said foodborne diseases remain a major cause of illness and mortality, particularly in low- and middle-income countries where weak regulatory systems, poor hygiene practices, and inadequate food handling infrastructure increase the risk of contamination.
According to the WHO, children under five years old are especially vulnerable, accounting for a significant proportion of deaths linked to contaminated food and water. The organisation also noted that unsafe food contributes to long-term health complications, including kidney failure, cancer, and neurological disorders.
A WHO spokesperson highlighted the urgency of coordinated global action to improve food safety standards and prevent avoidable deaths.
“Unsafe food causes an estimated 1.5 million deaths every year globally.”
The agency called for stronger food safety systems, improved surveillance, and greater public awareness to reduce risks at every stage of the food supply chain, from production and processing to distribution and consumption.
It also urged governments to invest in training, regulation, and infrastructure to ensure safer food practices and protect public health.
The warning comes as global food supply chains become increasingly complex, raising concerns about contamination risks and the need for more robust international cooperation on food safety standards.
