Ensuring the
safe production, manufacture, distribution, supply and use of food is a
multifaceted problem and relies on the combined efforts of a number of sectors
of the community.
Contaminated food and water have long been held to be a primary cause of
gastroenteritis in the community. Risk assessment is an essential tool in
the decision-making process and managing the
risk of bacterial
and chemical contamination or conditions which may lead to outbreaks of
disease.
The Australia
New Zealand Food Authority estimated that approximately 20 percent of the
population is affected by gastroenteritis per year. The social consequences
of food-borne disease include both temporary and serious chronic illness
and even death.
The Food
Safety Special Interest Group is involved in the development of policy
positions regarding National, State and Territory food legislation, the
training in skills and knowledge of members and the development of a common
understanding across government, industry and community organisation on
modern approaches to ensure the safety of the food supply.