Conference to discuss international framework to secure food safety

Khalid Sharif Al Awadhi, Director of Food Control Department at Dubai Municipality, which is organising the conference during 24-26 February 2009 at the Dubai International Convention and Exhibition Centre, said the event assumes much significance at the time of heightened food warnings and recalls worldwide, that raise new questions about the quality and integrity of the existing system for assuring food safety.

"Food safety is receiving increased attention worldwide as the important links between food and health are increasingly recognized. In the past few months we have seen a plethora of food warnings and recalls worldwide, raising new questions about food safety. Urgent action is required to create an international framework to secure food safety in times of globalization, when accidents in one country can have a major impact on many other countries,"

said Al Awadhi.

He noted that the 4th Dubai International Food Safety Conference, supported by the Ministry of Environment and Water in UAE, Abu Dhabi Food Control Authority and the International Association for Food Protection, aims to update participants on scientific advances and recent developments in food safety.

The conference, to be held alongside Gulfood Exhibition, will comprise of five plenary sessions on the main theme of the conference 'Food Safety in Light of Food Security', eight symposia on different topics, poster sessions and, technical sessions. Three pre-conference workshops will complement the main conference, making this one of the most comprehensive meetings on food safety in the region, he said.

Various programs during the conference will discuss recent food safety issues and the benefits and effectiveness of new standards, and methods that many countries have established for enhancing and regulating food safety. Symposia topics include Food Safety Updates, Advancements in Food Testing, Food Safety Education, Pesticides Management in Foods and Best Practices.

Renowned scientists from international agencies, governments, health and research institutions, as well as the industry will share their perspectives; discuss best practices and harnessing of new technologies for sustainable actions to secure safer and better food supply.

Participants of the conference will include national and local representatives of government, the food industry, consumer organizations, and scientists. The conference is a 'must attend' for anyone with an interest in food, whether they are a consumer, health professional, food business or government regulator.