Unsafe food continues to be one of the biggest threats to public health in the world. According to new estimates published by the World Health Organization (WHO), approximately 866 million cases of illness and 1.5 million deaths are recorded each year related to the consumption of contaminated food.
CHILDREN UNDER 5 YEARS OF AGE, THE MOST RISK GROUP
According to the report, children under the age of five are almost three times more likely to fall ill from unsafe food than adults and older children. Although they make up only about 9% of the global population, they account for almost a third of all cases of foodborne illness. The most common are diarrheal diseases, which can be fatal in this vulnerable age group. In addition to infections, the risk also comes from exposure to chemicals such as mercury and lead, which can damage brain development and cause long-term neurological and developmental problems.
CAUSES AND GLOBAL IMPACT
The WHO estimates that most diseases are caused by bacteria, viruses and parasites transmitted through food (about 860 million cases in 2021). Meanwhile, chemical contamination is responsible for a disproportionate share of deaths. In 2021, about 73% of deaths from contaminated food were linked to chemicals. Among them, inorganic arsenic and lead account for the largest share of fatalities, as they increase the risk of heart disease and cancer.
GLOBAL INEQUALITIES
The report highlights that the greatest burden of disease from unsafe food falls on Africa and Southeast Asia, which together account for about 75% of global cases and 60% of deaths. Children and low-income communities are most affected, due to poorer sanitation, clean water and health systems.
ECONOMIC COST AND WHO CALL
In addition to its health impacts, food insecurity also has major economic consequences. In 2021, productivity losses were estimated at $310 billion, and when adjusted for differences in the cost of living across countries, this figure rises to $647 billion. WHO Director-General Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus stressed that food insecurity affects every household and every meal. He said countries now have better data to understand where the burden is greatest and to take concrete measures to protect public health.
Experts say improving drinking water, hygiene, food processing practices and access to healthcare are essential to reducing the risk. The new WHO report analyses 42 major foodborne hazards in 194 countries over the period 2000-2021. It warns that climate change, globalisation and antibiotic resistance are further exacerbating the situation. Experts call for an integrated “One Health” approach, linking human, animal and environmental health, to prevent contamination at the source and reduce the impact of this global problem.