TheMK sport Ministry of Health and Prevention (MoHAP) has organised a scientific workshop on food safety in Dubai, themed “Prepare for the Unexpected."

The event brought together representatives of food safety authorities as well as experts and specialists in public health and food safety to strengthen ongoing efforts to prevent, detect, and manage foodborne disease risks.

Inaugurated by Dr. Hussain Abdul Rahman Al Rand, Assistant Under-Secretary for the Public Health Sector, the workshop is part of an ongoing series of initiatives aimed at promoting public health and ensuring food safety. It also aligns with the National Nutrition Strategy 2030, which aims to establish sustainable dietary practices, ensure safe and supportive nutritional environments for all ages, and reduce the prevalence of diseases linked to dietary risk factors and foodborne illnesses.

Dr. Hussain Al Rand emphasised the importance of the workshop in bolstering cooperation and sharing knowledge among stakeholders to ensure food safety. He stressed that innovative initiatives and campaigns play a vital role in raising awareness about the impact of diet on health in line with the Ministry's strategy designed to manage preventive and community health programmes and enhance the quality of life nationwide."

Dr. Al Rand noted that the Ministry of Health and Prevention strives to ensure food safety with all strategic partners, and is constantly developing preventive systems and practices to reduce the spread of foodborne diseases.

The workshop covered a range of topics, focusing particularly on the “National Program for Monitoring and Investigating Foodborne Diseases.” It highlighted the significant role of modern technologies and artificial intelligence in predicting food safety risks and ensuring food security. Additionally, discussions delved into the challenges posed by emerging foodborne diseases, underscoring their ongoing impact.

The workshop featured a panel discussion on the opportunities and challenges in food safety, emphasising the role of innovation and technology in enhancing food safety systems. Participants stressed the need for greater cooperation and coordination among all relevant entities to ensure the provision of safe and healthy food to the community and highlighted the importance of increasing public awareness about food safety and its direct impact on public health.