The Republic of Korea recently marked its 23rd annual Food Safety Day with a focus on embracing new technologies in regulatory science. The event, held under the banner “Together for Food Safety, Healthy South Korea!”, featured prominent speakers and highlighted advancements in digital food safety management and the application of new technologies in ensuring food safety amidst evolving environments.
Dr. Yu-Kyoung Oh, the Minister of the Ministry of Food and Drug Safety, outlined the government’s efforts to modernize the country’s food safety management systems. She emphasized the implementation of “safe-i 24,” a system harnessing Artificial Intelligence to rigorously assess imported foods and ingredients. Additionally, smart Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Points (HACCP) systems are being expanded to automate hazard factor recording and management for food manufacturers. The Minister also introduced the “FoodQR” initiative, which empowers consumers to access safety, nutritional, and cooking information conveniently.
During her opening remarks, Corinna Hawkes, the Codex Secretary ad interim, highlighted this year’s World Food Safety Day theme, “food safety: prepare for the unexpected,” stressing the importance of proactive food safety awareness across the entire food supply chain. She praised the Republic of Korea’s leadership in food safety, particularly its support for Codex standards through various initiatives and projects.
The event, attended by over 200 participants, featured Moez Sanaa from the World Health Organization and Diego Varela from the Codex Alimentarius Commission. Sanaa commended Korea’s dedication to high food safety standards, emphasizing the necessity of preparedness to address unforeseen challenges in our food systems. Varela acknowledged the Republic of Korea’s active role within Codex and its commitment to improving national control systems.
The celebration of Korea Food Safety Day underscores the nation’s ongoing commitment to leveraging innovative technologies and international collaboration to advance food safety standards and protect public health.
