This year’s theme, “Food Safety: Science in Action”, emphasises the importance of science in ensuring food safety and reminds food companies across Australia and New Zealand to renew their commitment to safeguarding public health through rigorous, science-based practices.
With food safety increasingly under the spotlight, every business in the supply chain is responsible for prioritizing consumer protection, meeting industry standards and maintaining trust in local and international markets. Foodborne illnesses continue to be a significant risk globally, with the World Health Organisation (WHO) estimating that one in ten people falls ill each year due to contaminated food.
In Australia and New Zealand, where the food industry plays a crucial role in the economy, the responsibility to mitigate these risks is not just a regulatory obligation, it is a moral imperative.
Elevating food safety beyond compliance
"Food safety is no longer just about compliance. It's about safeguarding reputation, protecting brands and accessing global markets," says Theo Vouthas, Food Business Development Manager at SGS. Science-based systems like Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Points (HACCP), Safe Quality Food (SQF) and Food Safety Certification (FSSC) 22000, form the backbone of effective food safety assurance. However, the success of these certifications relies heavily on the culture and training that support them.
This year’s theme shines a spotlight on the essential role of science and innovation in food safety, from microbiological testing and traceability technologies to risk-based auditing and predictive analytics. For businesses across the food sector, embracing scientific advances is essential not only for meeting regulatory requirements but also for unlocking export opportunities in markets with strict food safety standards.
Achieving consistency through certification
Certification to globally recognized standards provides a reliable framework for quality and risk management. These standards are increasingly becoming a baseline for doing business, particularly for Australian and New Zealand companies.
Investing in people
The importance of investing in staff training and continuous improvement cannot be overstated. Food safety starts with people: from those handling raw ingredients to those overseeing logistics and managing storage. As scientific knowledge evolves, so must the skills of those within the food industry.
On this World Food Safety Day, Australian and New Zealand companies are urged to take stock of their systems, invest in science-based solutions and continue building a culture of safety that puts consumers first. Together, let’s build a safer food environment for all.
How can we help?
As a world leader in certification, we offer evidence-based practices that benefit you and the future of your business. We help you prepare for and maintain the latest globally recognized food safety standards, including HACCP, FSSC 22000 V6 and ISO 22000:2018. Our courses are delivered via a variety of methods and can be tailored to reflect your individual business needs.
For further food audits and certification, please contact:
Theo Vouthas
National Business Development Manager
t: +61497399386
For further food safety training information, please contact:
Matthew Traynor
Business Manager Training
t: +61455527349
About SGS
SGS is the world’s leading Testing, Inspection and Certification company. We operate a network of over 2,500 laboratories and business facilities across 115 countries, supported by a team of 99,500 dedicated professionals. With over 145 years of service excellence, we combine the precision and accuracy that define Swiss companies to help organizations achieve the highest standards of quality, compliance and sustainability.
Our brand promise – when you need to be sure – underscores our commitment to trust, integrity and reliability, enabling businesses to thrive with confidence. We proudly deliver our expert services through the SGS name and trusted specialized brands, including Brightsight, Bluesign, Maine Pointe and Nutrasource.
SGS is publicly traded on the SIX Swiss Exchange under the ticker symbol SGSN (ISIN CH1256740924, Reuters SGSN.S, Bloomberg SGSN:SW).
