Message from the Minister of Health - World Food Safety Day 2024

OTTAWA, ON, - On World Food Safety Day 2024, the theme "Prepare for the unexpected" highlights the importance of being prepared and having strong systems in place for food safety.

Canada has one of the safest food supplies in the world thanks to the many measures we have put in place to prevent food safety incidents such as food safety controls and support from the Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA), Health Canada, the Public Health Agency of Canada, and industry to ensure compliance with Canadian regulations throughout the supply chain.

CFIA works closely with provincial/territorial government organizations, municipal authorities, and industry so that we can act quickly and in a coordinated way to keep Canadians' food safe.

At home, consumers can take proactive measures to prepare for the unexpected and protect their families by:

• staying informed about food recalls and safety
• viewing public health notices issued by the Public Health Agency of Canada
• using proper food handling and storage practices, such as washing hands and utensils thoroughly, separating raw and cooked foods, and refrigerating perishables promptly
• having an emergency food supply stocked with non-perishable items to ensure readiness during unforeseen circumstances like natural disasters or supply chain disruptions
• reporting potential food safety issues

By working together, the Government of Canada, industry and consumers can all play an active role in maintaining food safety.

The Honourable Mark Holland, P.C., M.P.