World Food Day 2023

ICFMH take on World Food Day 2023, October 16: Nourishing Our Planet, Feeding Our Future with Food Microbiology

In the quest to ensure global food security, the role of food microbiology is more significant than ever. Prevalence, diversity, function of microorganisms in food, their behavior, and their impact on food safety and quality; all are essential. In the context of World Food Day 2023, understanding the role of food microbiology in securing the world's food supply is paramount.

1. Food Safety: Foodborne illnesses and contamination are major threats to food security. Food microbiologists play a crucial role in identifying and controlling harmful microorganisms like bacteria, viruses, and fungi in the food supply chain. They work to ensure that the food we consume is free from pathogens and safe for human consumption. This is particularly important in preventing foodborne outbreaks that could disrupt food availability.
2. Food Preservation: Microorganisms, both beneficial and harmful, play a significant role in food preservation. Food microbiologists study and develop techniques to preserve food through fermentation, pasteurization, canning, and other methods. These preservation methods not only extend the shelf life of food but also reduce food waste, a critical aspect of food security.
3. Nutrient Enhancement: Microorganisms can be harnessed to enhance the nutritional content of food. For example, probiotics and beneficial bacteria are used in the production of fermented foods, improving both the nutritional value and taste. By leveraging food microbiology, we can create more nutritious and accessible food options for a growing global population.
4. Sustainable Agriculture: Food microbiologists contribute to sustainable agriculture by studying the beneficial microorganisms that promote soil health and plant growth. These microbes can reduce the need for chemical fertilizers and pesticides, making agriculture more environmentally friendly and resilient to changing climate conditions.
5. Innovation in Food Production: Advances in food microbiology have led to innovative food production methods, such as cellular agriculture and synthetic biology. These approaches have the potential to revolutionize food production by reducing the environmental impact, conserving resources, and increasing food availability.

On World Food Day 2023, recognizing the critical role of food microbiology in food security is essential. By harnessing the knowledge and techniques provided by food microbiologists, we can ensure that the world's food supply is safe, nutritious, and sustainable. This science not only protects our food from contamination but also contributes to making it more resilient to the challenges of an ever-changing world.

Prof. dr. Andreja Rajkovic, president