Fundamental shifts needed for food safety

dubai — The global food industry needs to make fundamental shifts in its operations to advance food safety worldwide, speakers said at the Global Halal Industry Platform on Monday.

“Today we have reached a point where we have to make fundamental changes in the way we do business. We must be responsive and innovative in advancing food safety actions and promoting responsible investments that can enhance the quality of life while leaving no one behind,” said Abdulla Mohammed Al Awar, chief executive of Dubai Islamic Economy Development Centre (DIEDC), in his keynote address at the event.

It has become a new culture many countries are keen to embrace as part of their efforts to ensure a healthier and more sustainable future for their citizens Abdulla Mohammed Al Awar, Chief executive, DIEDC

The event, organised by the Emirates Authority for Standardisation and Metrology, was part of the educational programme of Gulfood, the world’s largest annual food event running at Dubai World Trade Centre.

Al Awar called for increased change input from the private sector. “Amidst the public sector’s efforts to end famine, hunger and malnutrition, as well as overconsumption, there is an increasing need for the contribution of private sector companies engaged in agriculture, food processing, packaging, retail and food service,” he said.

Addressing an international audience of Halal industry leaders, Al Awar said the Halal concept is no longer the sole domain of Muslims. “It has become a new culture many countries are keen to embrace as part of their efforts to ensure a healthier and more sustainable future for their citizens. “Awareness is key for Muslim and non-Muslim populations alike. Experts expect the latter to veer towards Halal due to rising concerns about unhygienic and unhealthy food.”

Al Awar said food safety, food production and food security are now topping the international agenda with maintaining the status quo no longer an option.

— issacjohn@khaleejtimes.com