Dr. Moretta Damayanti Highlights Food Safety on World Food Safety Day in Jakarta

On World Food Safety Day, Dr. Moretta Damayanti from the Indonesian Pediatric Association (IDAI) underscored the critical importance of food safety in preparation, storage, and serving to prevent bacterial, viral, and parasitic contamination.

During a discussion in Jakarta, Dr. Damayanti emphasized that food safety involves more than just the food itself. She stated, "Food safety is not only about the food itself, but also about how it is prepared, stored, and served."

Dr. Damayanti highlighted the severe consequences of foodborne illnesses, particularly in children. She noted that millions of children suffer from diarrhea caused by contaminated food, which can lead to death. "Contamination of food has a huge role in causing diarrhea. Even parents who don't wash their hands before feeding their children still have a direct risk of bacterial contamination," she explained.

To ensure food safety, Dr. Damayanti recommended several practices. These include washing hands before cooking and feeding children, storing raw food separately from cooked food, cooking food thoroughly, maintaining proper temperature control, and using safe water and ingredients.

Why this matters: Food safety is a critical public health concern that affects millions of people worldwide, particularly children. Failure to ensure food safety can lead to severe consequences, including illness, death, and significant economic burdens on individuals and communities.

World Food Safety Day, celebrated on June 7, aims to raise awareness about the importance of food safety. According to the World Health Organization, approximately 600 million people fall ill every year because they consume unsafe food. Foodborne illnesses are a significant public health concern, causing symptoms like vomiting, aches, and diarrhea.

Dr. Damayanti's remarks serve as a potent warning of the collective responsibility required to ensure food safety. She stressed that proper food handling practices can significantly reduce the risk of foodborne diseases, thereby protecting public health.

To summarize, the emphasis on food safety by Dr. Moretta Damayanti on World Food Safety Day highlights the ongoing need for vigilance in food preparation, storage, and serving. By adopting these practices, the risk of foodborne illnesses can be minimized, safeguarding the health of children and the broader community.

Key Takeaways

• Food safety involves preparation, storage, and serving to prevent contamination.
• Foodborne illnesses can lead to severe consequences, including death, especially in children.
• Proper handwashing, food separation, and cooking can ensure food safety.
• Food safety is a critical public health concern, affecting millions worldwide.
• Adopting safe food practices can minimize the risk of foodborne diseases.