Food safety is everyone’s responsibility. In recognition of World Food Safety Day 2026, the Department of Nutrition and Food Science at the University of Ghana brought together experts and stakeholders from across the food system for a symposium focused on finding practical solutions to food safety challenges.

The theme for the symposium was, “From Burden to Solutions: Safe Food Everywhere." The symposium provided a platform for dialogue on the burden of foodborne diseases, emerging food safety concerns, and the actions needed to strengthen food safety systems in Ghana.

The event brought together stakeholders from academia, government, international organisations, the food industry, development organizations, and consumer groups, reflecting the shared responsibility required to ensure that the food people eat is safe.

A key feature of the symposium was a keynote presentation by Ms. Yuki Minato, a representative from the World Health Organization (WHO) Headquarters, which highlighted the newly released global estimates on the burden of foodborne diseases and their implications for Africa.

The presentation provided an important foundation for discussions on the scale of foodborne disease and the need to move beyond recognising the burden towards identifying and implementing evidence-based solutions. The conversation then turned to Ghana's food safety landscape, with discussions addressing a range of issues including chemical contaminants, microbial hazards, food fraud and the potential impact of activities such as illegal mining on food safety.

A panel discussion brought together perspectives from different sectors to examine the challenges affecting food safety in Ghana and explore practical pathways forward. Discussions considered the importance of research, policy, investment, innovation, and stronger partnerships in improving food safety outcomes. The engagement also highlighted the need for closer collaboration between researchers, regulators, industry, consumers and other stakeholders to ensure that scientific knowledge translates into meaningful action. The symposium reinforced an important message: while food safety challenges are significant, solutions are possible when stakeholders work together.

Beyond regulations, standards and technical interventions, the discussions emphasised the importance of building a culture of food safety. Food safety practices begin at every point in the food system, from production and processing to preparation, storage, sale and consumption. Developing safe food practices therefore requires not only effective systems and enforcement, but also sustained education and awareness. The symposium highlighted the importance of starting this culture early, including through food safety education that can equip children and young people with the knowledge and habits needed to become advocates for safe food within their homes and communities.

For the Department of Nutrition and Food Science, the symposium reflects its commitment to creating spaces where research, education and practice intersect. By bringing together experts and practitioners from different sectors, the event provided an opportunity to exchange knowledge, identify gaps and consider approaches that can contribute to safer and more resilient food systems in Ghana.

The Department is grateful to the speakers, panellists, partners, institutions, and participants whose contributions made the symposium a meaningful platform for dialogue and collaboration.