President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu has reaffirmed the government’s commitment to strengthening food safety standards across the Maldives, pledging tougher regulations, enhanced inspections and improved monitoring systems to ensure food consumed in the country remains safe and nutritious.
In a message shared on X to mark World Food Safety Day, the President highlighted the importance of food safety in protecting public health and preventing illnesses caused by contaminated food.
“On this World Food Safety Day, we are reminded of the significance of safe food in eliminating foodborne diseases, protecting public health and achieving sustainable development,” President Muizzu said.
The President noted that many foodborne illnesses can be prevented through stronger systems, data-driven decision-making and greater collaboration among government institutions, businesses and consumers.
As part of the government’s efforts, Muizzu said priority is being given to implementing a comprehensive food safety framework, including stronger regulations under the Food Safety Act, tighter controls on imported food products and expanded testing and monitoring capabilities.
“We remain firmly committed to ensuring that all food consumed in our nation is safe, nutritious and trustworthy,” he stated.
Food safety has become an increasingly important issue worldwide as countries seek to reduce health risks associated with contaminated food and strengthen consumer confidence in food supply chains. In the Maldives, where a significant portion of food products are imported, authorities have in recent years placed greater emphasis on inspections, testing and regulatory oversight.
President Muizzu also used the occasion to draw attention to global humanitarian challenges, expressing concern for people in conflict-affected regions who lack access to safe food and clean drinking water.
He specifically referenced the situation in Gaza and other areas facing humanitarian crises, calling on the international community to work collectively to address food insecurity and uphold international standards related to food safety and public health.
The theme of this year’s World Food Safety Day, designated by the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), is “From Burden to Solutions – Safe Food Everywhere.”
According to international estimates, contaminated food affects hundreds of millions of people each year and contributes to more than one million deaths globally, underscoring the need for stronger food safety systems.
First Lady Sajidha Mohamed also marked the occasion with a message emphasizing that food safety is a shared responsibility that extends beyond government institutions and food businesses.
She said ensuring safe food requires the combined efforts of producers, distributors, healthcare professionals and consumers alike.
The First Lady urged the public to remain mindful of how food is produced, handled, prepared and stored, noting that informed choices and greater awareness can help reduce health risks.
She further stressed that every individual has a role to play in ensuring food products remain safe for consumption and do not become harmful to health.
According to Sajidha, strengthening food safety standards and supporting initiatives aimed at protecting public health are essential steps toward building a healthier future for the nation.
World Food Safety Day is observed annually on June 7 to raise awareness about foodborne diseases and encourage action to improve food safety systems worldwide. The observance is jointly promoted by the World Health Organization and the Food and Agriculture Organization as part of broader efforts to safeguard public health and strengthen sustainable food systems.
