Kohima: Nagaland officials gathered in Dimapur on Monday to mark the 8th World Food Safety Day, focusing on the theme of transforming foodborne health risks into actionable solutions. The event was hosted by the Food Safety Wing of the state’s Department of Health and Family Welfare alongside the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India.
S Tainiu, Secretary of Health and Family Welfare, warned that unsafe food remains a major social and economic challenge. She noted that contaminated products cause widespread illness, hospitalizations, and deaths, with children under five being particularly at risk. Tainiu called on hotel owners and food handlers to enforce strict hygiene standards and proper storage, urging businesses to prepare for potential emergencies.
"Emergency response mechanisms for food complaints, suspected poisoning, and product recalls must be in place," Tainiu stated during the event. She added that clear labeling of allergens is essential for protecting consumers.
State Programme Officer Dr. John Kemp reinforced the idea that food safety is a collective effort involving producers, retailers, and consumers. He advocated for improved surveillance systems and data-driven decision-making to reduce the incidence of foodborne diseases. Representing the hospitality sector, Vikie Nagi of the Nagaland Hotel and Restaurant Association acknowledged that food safety serves as the backbone of the tourism industry.
The event concluded with a practical workshop for local hoteliers. Food technicians demonstrated proper hand-washing techniques and identified common risks, such as food adulteration, to help staff maintain safer kitchens.
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