The International Committee on Food Microbiology and Hygiene was founded at the IAMS World Congress on Microbiology in Rome, 1953. The Original Mission Statement was to draw together small groups of leading experts in particular fields of food microbiology and thereby to arrive at a consensus document on subjects of primary interest to the discipline, which was accepted at the plenary session of the mentioned IAMS congress in Rome. Members of the first Executive Committee were: Profs. Ingram and Buttiaux (Presidents), Dr. Betty Hobbs (Councillor-at-large), and Prof. David Mossel (Executive Secretary). As permanent Committee under the Bacteriology and Applied Microbiology of the IUMS, the ICFMH officially represents the IUMS in all issues related to food.
A major development from the initial small-sized Symposia, large international ICFMH Meetings or congresses called FOOD MICRO are now being conducted every two years in different countries. Further information on these meetings and other activities is given under Activities and Events, and on the official “flagship” (The International Journal on Food Microbiology).
On June 7, 2025, the International Committee on Food Microbiology and Hygiene (ICFMH) proudly joins the global community in celebrating World Food Safety Day, under the theme "Food Safety: Science in Action."
At ICFMH, we believe that scientific research, international collaboration, and knowledge dissemination are the pillars of food safety. From detection of pathogens to global risk management, science is the driving force behind every safe bite of food. Through our conferences, training, and our partnership with Elsevier in publishing the International Journal of Food Microbiology, we continuously strive to promote evidence-based approaches to food safety around the world.
To mark this year’s WFSD, we are pleased to announce the launch of the official ICFMH YouTube channel, where we will share scientific insights, expert interviews, and community highlights — starting with a special WFSD 2025 video series featuring food safety leaders and researchers.
Visit and subscribe to the channel here:
YouTube.com/@ICFMH
Let’s continue to turn science into action — for safer food, healthier communities, and a better future for all.
Prof. dr. Andreja Rajkovic, ICFMH president