Food is more than mere sustenance—it is the bridge between nature’s bounty and human life, a gift passed from the soil to our hands through the tireless labor of farmers, traders, and cooks. Yet, this blessing can turn into a silent threat if safety is not upheld at every step of the journey. To remind the world of this sacred responsibility, World Food Safety Day is observed each year on 7th June.

The day, established by the United Nations in 2018, carries a simple but powerful message: “Food safety is everyone’s business.” From the farmer who plants the seed, to the shopkeeper who sells the produce, to the family that prepares a meal, every link in the chain must honor the principles of cleanliness, quality, and care.

Unsafe food—contaminated with bacteria, viruses, chemicals, or foreign particles—can cause serious illness and even death. The World Health Organization estimates that millions fall sick each year due to foodborne diseases, many of them children. Such tragedies are avoidable if we commit to mindful practices: washing hands before cooking, storing food at the right temperature, avoiding stale or spoiled ingredients, and ensuring proper cooking.

The theme for recent years has often emphasized collaboration—governments setting standards, industries following hygiene protocols, and consumers making informed choices. In India, traditional wisdom already teaches these principles. From rinsing grains in clean water to eating freshly cooked meals and using spices with natural antibacterial properties, our heritage offers a wealth of food safety practices worth preserving.

On this day, let us pledge to respect the food on our plate—not just for its flavor, but for its purity. For in every morsel lies not only taste but health, and in health lies the strength of a nation.