Ten Latin American countries are working together to strengthen food safety systems through 24 new initiatives designed to improve risk analysis, modernize regulations, and protect public health across the region.
The project is led by the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO/WHO), the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO), and the University of Minnesota, with financial support from the Standards and Trade Development Facility (STDF).
The initiative aims to help countries develop science-based food safety policies aligned with international standards and improve national food control systems while supporting safer trade practices.
Foodborne diseases remain a major health challenge in the Americas. According to estimates from the World Health Organization, millions of people across the region become ill every year after consuming food contaminated with bacteria, viruses, parasites, chemicals, or toxins. These illnesses also create significant economic and social costs.
Representatives from Argentina, Brazil, Chile, Colombia, Costa Rica, Ecuador, Honduras, Paraguay, Peru, and Uruguay are participating in the initiative to strengthen the use of risk analysis in food safety decision-making.
The program focuses on helping governments apply scientific evidence when developing regulations, improving inspection systems, and responding to emerging food safety risks.
A key feature of the initiative is its practical learning approach, which combines training with real-world case studies based on each country’s priorities. National technical teams will receive guidance, participate in peer-learning networks, and develop solutions that can be integrated into their own food control systems.
The 24 case studies will focus on six major areas, including risk-based regulation, risk profiles, food inspection systems, border controls, sampling methods, risk assessment, and communication strategies.
The projects will be implemented and tested by national authorities, with the goal of strengthening long-term food safety governance and improving countries’ ability to respond to public health challenges.
Experts involved in the program emphasized that risk analysis is not only a technical process but also an essential tool for building modern and resilient food safety systems. By sharing knowledge and strengthening cooperation, countries can improve their ability to protect consumers and ensure safer food supply chains.
The initiative will also establish a Regional Community of Practice on Food Safety, creating a permanent platform for technical exchange, collaboration, and shared learning among participating countries.
Through stronger regional cooperation, scientific innovation, and improved regulatory systems, the program aims to create safer, more sustainable, and more resilient food systems across Latin America.
