Abu Dhabi meet to focus on better global food safety

Abu Dhabi: People worldwide can expect a better mechanism to deal with global food safety emergencies as experts from 177 countries are meeting next week in Abu Dhabi to enhance coordination in this regard.

The Abu Dhabi Food Control Authority (ADFCA) will host the first global meeting of the International Food Safety Authorities Network (Infosan) from December 14 to 16 at the Rotana Beach Hotel in the capital. Infosan is a joint initiative of the Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO) of the UN and the World Health Organization (WHO).

The meeting assumes special significance as food emergencies of an international nature are increasingly identified as a major new challenge to food safety authorities due to the expanding global food trade. As a food importing country, the UAE is expected to benefit more from improved international food safety efforts.

Rashid Mohammad Al Shariqi, Director General, ADFCA, said the choice of Abu Dhabi for Infosan reinforced the pre-eminent position of the UAE and its capital internationally.

At a glance

What: International Food Safety Authorities Network (Infosan) meeting

When: December 14 to 16

Where: Rotana Beach Hotel in Abu Dhabi