Food Safety Regulations Research Articles

Agri-food fraud in Africa vis-à-vis global health

This paper reports on the extent of agri-food fraud in Africa, its occurrence across the Africa-EU trade borders, and associated implications for global health. It revealed that agri-food fraud in Africa and across Africa-EU trade borders may be a concern. Meanwhile, a few suspected cases have been reported, there may be more unchecked/unnoticed agri-food fraud practices ongoing in Africa requiring food trade border checks and rapid decisions making processes to reduce exposures. Exposure to adulterants can have significant implications for global health, as consumers unknowingly pay for, and consume, products that may be adulterated with substances which constitute a risk factor to one or more unchecked hazards against consumers' health protection. As global trade in agri-food products expands, the supply chain vulnerability to fraudulent activities becomes increasingly evident. This may be worse partly due to the inadequate food safety laws in African countries or poor enforcement. There is a need for food safety regulations in Africa that aim to ensure the safety and authenticity of food products, protect public health, and maintain consumer confidence. Finally, there is a need for rapid detection tools to make quick decisions on the field and agri-food traceability systems.

The characteristics, challenges, and opportunities of China’s food safety inspection supervision in the distribution sector

Concerns about public food safety are comparatively common in the Chinese food distribution industry. A dearth of expertise and scarce resources lead to frequent instances of incapacity and inadequate oversight, which negatively affect stakeholders in the circulation industry. The main challenges to food supervision are the need for more alignment between the technical specifications, comprehensiveness, and continuity of the existing food safety supervision legislation and the real circumstances facing the regulatory agencies. Despite the circulation field’s critical position in food safety regulation, its complex and variable characteristics make it challenging to implement and manage. There exist notable concerns over inadequate food safety standards and supervisory frameworks, vagueness in enforcing rules, and insufficient workforce and technical know-how in food safety supervision. The opportunities for regulating the food business with the government’s focus and attention considerably outweigh the obstacles that lie ahead. The growth of the food business needs to be viewed in the larger framework of the country’s economic development. Professional involvement and collaboration with technical departments can help regulatory bodies tackle non-compliant actions in the market circulation process in a timely way, resulting in a more evidence-based and responsive regulatory approach. Establishing a healthy equilibrium and elucidating the relationship between oversight and the food business will be crucial in the future.

Evaluating the Human Risks of Consumption of Foods of Bovine Origin with Ivermectin Residues in Ecuador.

Ivermectin is a widely used antiparasitic in livestock, but its use can result in residues in bovine products and excretions. The objective of the present study was to determine the presence of ivermectin residues in cattle meat, liver, milk, faeces, and urine and assess consumer risk from chronic exposure through contaminated bovine products using a deterministic approach. To determine the presence of ivermectin residues, 124 samples were analysed by liquid chromatography. Residues were found in 68% of faeces samples and small percentages (3%) in liver, milk, and urine, with no residues detected in meat. The mean ivermectin residue in the liver (16.46 µg/kg) remained below the maximum residue limit (MRL); however, in milk (12.46 µg/kg), the residues exceeded the permitted MRL. The results obtained from chronic dietary exposure show that the consumption of ivermectin residues was low, and the risk was assessed as being rare to very rare. Additionally, this study reveals concerning levels of ivermectin residues in milk that may far exceed established safety limits. This situation emphasises the urgent need for stricter regulations and monitoring in milk production, particularly from small farms, to protect vulnerable populations. However, from a one health perspective, the presence of residues in faeces poses potential environmental hazards, warranting further research. Moreover, the detection of residues in milk, despite the ban on ivermectin use in dairy cattle, underscores the importance of compliance with food safety regulations and the need for continued vigilance in this area.

Assessment of knowledge, attitude and practice regarding hygiene among meat handlers in Vijayapura city, North Karnataka

Background: Food-borne diseases are a significant health concern globally, particularly in meat-related cases, due to unhygienic handling and inadequate sanitation. Challenges such as inadequate food safety regulations, weak regulatory frameworks and insufficient awareness among food handlers contribute in exacerbating the issue. The aim of this study was to evaluate knowledge, attitudes, and practices of hygiene among slaughterhouse workers in Vijayapura, north Karnataka. Objective was to evaluate the sociodemographic characteristics of meat handlers and their correlation with knowledge, attitudes, and practices related to meat hygiene in in Vijayapura, north Karnataka. Methods: This descriptive, cross-sectional study was conducted in Vijayapura city from July to September 2023, involving meat handlers from various shops. 79 participants were selected from 200 shops using a lottery method, anticipating a 71% knowledge level of meat hygiene. Informed consent was taken, and data collection was done using a pretested, semi-structured questionnaire. Results: Among the 79 participants, 86.1% were male and 13.9% female, with 64.5% having over five years of experience. Most (96.2%) had good knowledge of meat hygiene, while 3.8% had poor knowledge. Significant associations were found between gender (p=0.00), religion (p=0.00), educational status (p=0.013), and meat hygiene practices. Conclusions: The study reveals satisfactory knowledge, attitudes, and practices regarding meat hygiene among meat handlers in Vijayapura. It is highly advisable to emphasize public health education, develop policies, and implement consistent training programs for meat handlers focused on safe meat handling practices, as well as maintaining high standards of personal and general hygiene.

ASSESSING FOOD SAFETY AWARENESS AND PRACTICES AMONG STREET FOOD VENDORS IN KATSINA STATE, NORTH WESTERN NIGERIA

Food safety is a critical global issue, with contaminated food posing serious health risks, particularly to vulnerable populations such as children under five, the elderly, and the sick. This study examined food safety practices among street food vendors in major towns of Katsina State. Using structured questionnaires and a multi-stage sampling technique, data were collected from a total of 316 street food vendors to assess vendors' awareness and adoption of food safety measures. Descriptive statistics and traffic light model were used to analyse the data. While vendors demonstrated high awareness of basic hygiene practices like washing utensils and avoiding work when ill, the adoption of other crucial practices, such as using hand gloves and maintaining clean selling locations, was found to be low. This gap between awareness and practice highlights the need for targeted interventions, including training programs and public awareness campaigns, to bridge the knowledge-behaviour gap. The traffic light model categorized food safety risk to levels, revealing that many vendors operate at high to moderate risk levels. These findings underscore the importance of continuous monitoring, feedback, and enforcement of food safety regulations. Recommendations include enhancing access to resources, providing incentives for good practices, and implementing regular health and safety audits. This can significantly reduce foodborne illnesses, ensuring safer food consumption, and supporting national health and economic development through safer trade and tourism activities. This study contributes to the on-going discourse on food safety in developing regions and highlights critical areas for policy and practical interventions to safeguard public health.

Will the development of smart agriculture improve food safety in international markets? A theoretical approach

Today, there is a significant “digital divide” in the agricultural sector between developing and developed countries. Such a digital disparity has negative consequences on the international competitiveness of these countries and their ability to comply with Food Satefy Standards. We propose a theoretical model to analyze the role of smart agriculture in the ability of countries to comply with international food safety regulations, specifically the Maximum Residue Limits (MRLs) for contaminants such as aflatoxins, pesticides,and heavy metals. Firstly, we show that reducing the digital divide will always improve international food safety and food security (availability of a global supply). However, it can lead to more intense international competition, potentially causing a perverse effect: underinvestment in good agricultural practices by more digitally advanced countries. Furthermore, the digital catch-up of less advanced countries cannot sufficiently reduce health risks in international markets unless accompanied by strengthening official food control systems. Finally, we show that such digital catch-up encourages lowering MRLs rather than relaxing them, contrary to what producers or authorities might hope.

Economic Burden of Foodborne Illnesses Acquired in the United States.

Foodborne disease burden estimates inform public health priorities and can help the public understand disease impact. This article provides new estimates of the cost of U.S. foodborne illness. Our research updated disease modeling underlying these cost estimates with a focus on enhancing chronic sequelae modeling and enhancing uncertainty modeling. Our cost estimates were based on U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention estimates of the numbers of foodborne illnesses, hospitalizations, and deaths caused by 31 known foodborne pathogens and unspecified foodborne agents. We augmented these estimates of illnesses, hospitalizations, and deaths with more detailed modeling of health outcomes, including chronic sequelae. For health outcomes, we relied on U.S. data and research where possible, supplemented by the use of non-U.S. research where necessary and scientifically appropriate. Cost estimates were developed from large insurance or hospital charge databases, public data sources, and existing literature and were adjusted to 2023 dollars. We estimated the cost of foodborne illness in the United States circa 2023 to be $75 billion. Deaths accounted for 56% and chronic outcomes for 31% of the mean cost. The costliest pathogen was nontyphoidal Salmonella at $17.1 billion followed by Campylobacter at $11.3 billion. Toxoplasma ($5.7 billion) and Listeria ($4 billion) followed due primarily to deaths and chronic outcomes from pregnancy-associated cases. Per-case cost ranged from $196 for Bacillus cereus to $4.6 million for Vibrio vulnificus. Unspecified agents accounted for 38% of the total cost of foodborne illness, but these illnesses were generally mild (per-case cost $781). These cost estimates can help inform food safety priorities. Our pathogen-specific per-case cost estimates can also help inform benefit-cost analysis required for new federal food safety regulations.

A review of ice cream manufacturing process and system improvement strategies

The food industry faces several challenges, including intricate supply chains, compliance with food safety regulations, sustainability concerns, and the rising demand for high-quality products. Furthermore, consumers increasingly seek personalized food products with specific fat, sugar, and micronutrient levels. The ice cream industry is no exception in facing these challenges. Fortunately, Industry 4.0 technologies, such as smart manufacturing, data analytics, and the Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT), offer viable solutions to many of the aforementioned challenges. However, a deeper understanding of industrial ice cream manufacturing processes and systems is essential to apply these technologies effectively. While the related literature has often focused on ingredient selection to achieve the desired ice cream flavor and texture, there is a noticeable absence of comprehensive efforts to evaluate the impact of process- and systems-related aspects in ice cream manufacturing. This study employs a semi-systematic literature review approach to compile recent research that examines the influence of process- and system-level factors on ice cream product quality and production processes, focusing on the aspects that can benefit from implementing Industry 4.0 technologies. The literature review reveals that 1) at the process level, researchers have focused on three key processes (i.e., pasteurization, homogenization, and dynamic freezing) and their impact on the quality of the ice cream; 2) at the system level, researchers have concentrated their efforts on techno-economic factors, process scheduling, productivity, and sustainability.

Using optimized monochromatic energy dispersive X-ray fluorescence to determine the cadmium concentration in cacao and soil samples

Following the implementation of food safety limits on cadmium (Cd) in cacao products, there has been a growing demand for monitoring Cd in cacao tissues and soils. Traditional methods like acid digestion followed by Inductively Coupled Plasma Mass Spectrometry (ICP-MS) are time-consuming and costly. X-ray Fluorescence is an alternative technique that offers advantages in terms of speed, cost, ease of use and less environmental impact. However, to date, relatively high detection limits have impeded its application for food safety limits. This study examines a Monochromatic Energy Dispersive X-ray Fluorescence (MEDXRF) method optimized for Cd analysis as an alternative to ICP-MS. Using a measurement time of 200 s, the average limit of quantification (LOQ) was 0.178 mg Cd kg−1 for biological samples and 0.205 mg Cd kg−1 for soil samples. A strong correlation (y = 1.013 x + 0.003, R2 = 0.984) with ICP-MS results was found for 95 bean, 16 cacao liquor, 75 leaf, and 91 soil samples. The coefficient of variation (CV) among three replicates was below the threshold value of 15 % for most samples with Cd concentrations above the reported LOQ values. Additionally, a significant difference in CV was obtained between soils sieved over 500 μm (median 8.2 %) or 2 mm (median 9.8 %). However, no significant difference in CV was observed between 500 μm unpeeled beans and cocoa liquor with particle size of 20 μm. Based on our data, the proposed procedure is to analyze three replicates for 200 s with a sample size of 500 μm. The optimized MEDXRF technique offers important advantages in terms of cost-effectiveness and efficiency of routine Cd monitoring in the cacao supply chain, large-scale screening, and scientific research, and could be extended to other crops and heavy metals that are subject to food safety regulation at low concentrations.

Comprehensive review of salmonellosis: current status of the disease and future perspectives

Salmonellosis is a significant public health concern in Saudi Arabia, with various serovars of Salmonella causing outbreaks and infections. The disease's clinical presentation includes common symptoms such as diarrhea, fever, and abdominal cramps, with potential complications in severe cases. Diagnosing salmonellosis in Saudi Arabia involves a combination of traditional laboratory methods and molecular techniques to ensure accurate identification and treatment. Preventive measures and control strategies, including vaccination campaigns, food safety protocols, and public health education, have been implemented to mitigate the spread of salmonellosis. Challenges such as antimicrobial resistance, limited healthcare resources in rural areas, and underreporting of cases persist and impact the effective management of the disease. Recommendations for improving salmonellosis prevention and management include enhancing surveillance, implementing public health education campaigns, strengthening food safety regulations, promoting antimicrobial stewardship, investing in research, improving healthcare infrastructure, and fostering collaboration and coordination between sectors. Implementing these recommendations can help Saudi Arabia effectively address the challenges posed by salmonellosis and reduce the burden of the disease on public health.

Rapid method for identifying diacylglycerol edible oils using Raman spectroscopy combined with the “oil microscopy” method

This study aims to identify diacylglycerol (DAG) edible oils using Raman spectroscopy to protect consumers. Raman spectral data from 28 samples were collected, including DAG (1,3-diolein), triacylglycerol (triolein), DAG edible oils, adulterated oils, and ordinary edible oils. These samples were analyzed using a combined linear discriminant analysis–k nearest neighbors algorithm, characteristic band ratios, peak area ratios, and oil microscopy. The results of Raman spectroscopy analysis demonstrated DAG edible oils, adulterated oil, and ordinary cooking oil at 1746 cm−1 with Iordinary edible oil >Iadulterated oil >IDAG edible oil. Further analyses revealed differences in esterification between DAG edible oils and triacylglycerol. Moreover, the results demonstrated that the combination of Raman spectroscopy and oil microscopy can quickly and accurately detect DAG edible oil adulteration, which is expected to be an effective tool for food safety regulation to protect consumers’ rights.

Advancing food safety standards through technology integration and policy development

Food safety is a critical global concern, directly impacting public health, economic stability, and international trade. With the complexity of modern food supply chains and the rising incidence of foodborne illnesses, traditional food safety measures are often insufficient to address the growing risks. This review explores how integrating advanced technologies and developing robust policies can significantly enhance food safety standards. Technological innovations, including the Internet of Things (IoT), blockchain, artificial intelligence (AI), and automation, offer promising solutions for real-time monitoring, traceability, and predictive analytics in food production and distribution. IoT and sensors enable constant monitoring of environmental conditions like temperature and humidity, while blockchain ensures transparency and traceability across supply chains. AI and machine learning are transforming food safety by predicting contamination risks and optimizing inspection processes, while robotics and automation reduce human error in food processing plants. Alongside technological advancements, policy development plays a crucial role in reinforcing food safety standards. Global harmonization of food safety regulations, stronger enforcement mechanisms, and public-private partnerships are essential for ensuring widespread compliance. Incorporating technology into regulatory frameworks is key to addressing new challenges and maintaining food safety across borders. Governments must also prioritize consumer education and awareness through policies that leverage technology platforms to promote food safety knowledge. Case studies demonstrate the successful application of these technologies in sectors like dairy and meat processing, showcasing the potential for broader industry adoption. However, challenges such as high implementation costs, regulatory lag, and data security concerns remain. This review argues that a synergistic approach combining technological integration with forward-thinking policy development is essential for advancing global food safety standards and safeguarding public health in the future.

Artful Instruction: Refining TVET Pedagogy on Food Safety Requirements

Food safety is a critical issue in the culinary industry, and culinary students as a Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) practitioners must understand the importance ofadhering to food safety requirements. However, there are several challenges in ensuring students' perceptions of conformity to food safety requirements are accurate and effective. These issues include the complexity of food safety regulations, the varyinglevels of understanding among students, and the limited resources available to culinary programs to provide comprehensive training. This study explores vocational culinary students' perceptions of conformity to food safety requirements. The research employs quantitative design research, using surveys to collect data from 120 students enrolled in culinary programs at vocational schools in Johor, Malaysia. The study aims to understand how students view their adherence to food safety protocols and how their training and education shape their perceptions. This study is structured as a survey employing a distribution of questionnaires to find culinary students in Johor, Malaysia views compliance with food safety requirements in terms of food safety training, food safety rules, food safety standards, and license compliance with food safety standards. Statistical Package for Social Science (SPSS) version 26.0 was used to compute the survey responses' mean value, standard deviation, and frequency. All of the responses to the research questions got a high mean score. The results reveal that most students understand food safety practices well, but there needs to be more knowledge and implementation of some critical protocols. Furthermore, the study revealed that vocational students' general perceptions of food safety laws regarding food safety rules had the highest mean value, indicating that this is the most influential factor in persuading how culinary students in Johor, Malaysia perceive compliance with food safety standards. These findings have implications for culinary education programs and the food service industry, suggesting that more attention should be paid to providing students with comprehensive training in food safety practices to ensure safe and healthy food preparation.

The state of food safety and hygiene in bottled water production facilities in the five provinces of the Central Highlands region in 2023

A cross-sectional descriptive study was conducted from March 2023 to December 2023 to assess the implementation of food safety regulations in bottled water production facilities across the five provinces of the Central Highlands region (Kon Tum, Gia Lai, Dak Lak, Dak Nong, Lam Dong) in 2023. The study evaluated food safety conditions, practices of direct production personnel, and collected bottled water samples for testing five bacterial indicators according to QCVN 6-1:2010/BYT. The results showed that the majority of facilities did not meet the criteria of physical infrastructure conditions at 74.7% (56/75), equipment and utensil conditions at 74.7% (56/75), conditions of direct production personnel at 44.0% (33/75), personal hygiene practices at 65.3% (49/75), and bottle cleaning practices at 72% (54/75). The rate of microbial contamination in bottled water products was 70.7% (53/75), of which the main contamination was Pseudomonas aeruginosa 45.3% (34/75), total Coliforms 42.7% (32/75), Clostridia 6.7% (5/75) and Streptococci feacal 2.0% (2/75). Some factors related to bacterial contamination in bottled water products are the condition of facilities, practicing personal hygiene, and practicing bottle hygiene.

Divorced but co-habiting: a co-evolutionary perspective on EU-UK regulatory nexus post-Brexit

ABSTRACT In the aftermath of Brexit, the EU and the UK find themselves in an uncharted regulatory territory, similar to a divorced couple navigating the complexities of cohabitation. This article combines concepts from co-evolutionary theory with relational metaphors such as marriage, divorce, and co-habitation, offering a novel framework to analyse the unprecedented transition from EU member state to ex-member. The article uses food safety and gene editing regulations as case studies to illustrate the dynamics of this relationship. In food safety, both the EU and the UK maintain high standards rooted in past crises, reflecting a mutualistic co-evolutionary pathway. Conversely, in gene editing, the UK’s pursuit of a more liberal regulatory framework represents a competitive co-evolutionary trajectory, prompting the EU to reconsider its regulatory stance. This analysis unveils the complex reality of the post-Brexit EU-UK regulatory relations, marked by a continuous process of adaptation and influence.

Revolutionizing Food Safety and Crop Production: Harnessing Novel Biosensors

Farmers and food manufacturers are under immense pressure from consumers and food safety regulations to deliver pollutant-free, high-quality foods. The extensive use of chemicals in food production poses ecological as well as health risks. In order to meet the demand for safe, preservative-free foods, rapid sensing techniques are required. Traditional analysis methods are time consuming, laboratory bound, expensive and require highly skilled personnel. Alternative analysis systems such as biosensors, which are user-friendly and enable real-time monitoring in the field should also be used. Biosensors have been developed to detect foodborne pathogens such as Salmonella typhimurium, Escherichia coli, Listeria monocytogenes, etc. that cause food contamination, and a large number of cases are reported annually. Mycotoxin-contaminated food presents a serious threat to food safety. Biosensors have been utilised to identify Penicillium and aflatoxin infections, which are major mycotoxins found in food. Additionally, biosensors for identifying artificially ripened fruits have also been developed. Biosensors have been developed to detect pesticide residues such as atrazine, glyphosate, 2,4-D, methyl parathion, lindane, etc. Early identification of plant pathogens, including bacteria, viruses, and fungi, is crucial because it enables farmers to take the necessary precautions to control the disease. Pathogens such as Fusarium sp., Phytophthora palmivora, tomato leaf curl virus are among some of the pathogens that have been successfully detected using novel biosensors. They can also be used for detecting heavy metals as they are cheaper, faster, more reliable and selective than traditional analysis methods. A bacterial biosensor was developed using Bacillus megaterium, which was sensitive to heavy metals like cadmium, copper and zinc in soil. Additionally, biosensors have been developed to detect heavy metal pollution in plants as well as irrigation water.

Defining Risk: Hepatitis A Virus in Philippine Shellfish (Oyster and Mussels)

The hepatitis A virus (HAV) endemicity in the Philippines ranges from moderate to high. Despite this, health risks related to local seafood consumption are associated with red tide or mass fish kill. However, government agencies should consider the safety of local shellfish and culture sites to HAV. This article examines the current trends relevant to the presence of HAV along the local shellfish supply chain – including production levels, microbial concentration, consumer behavior, and food safety regulations. Despite the susceptibility of local shellfish to HAV, the study identified crucial data gaps: [1] reliance on bacterial indicators, [2] absence of monitoring records for HAV concentration in local shellfish products and culturing sites, and [3] limited studies regarding the effect of local cooking practices on HAV inactivation. The synthesis of this analysis will guide the national food safety risk managers in addressing the identified data gaps to facilitate a full-blown food risk analysis of HAV in Philippine shellfish.

Berberine-loaded nanoemulsions as a natural food preservative; the impact of femtosecond laser irradiation on the antibacterial activity

There is a growing concern among food safety regulators, the food industry, and consumers about foodborne illnesses. To improve food safety and increase shelf life, it is necessary to use natural preservatives. Natural antimicrobials are safer than artificial preservatives because they can prevent microbial resistance while also meeting consumers' demands for healthier food. This study used Berberine to enhance the antibacterial activity of Satureja Khuzistanica essential oil nanoemulsions (SKEO NE) against Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus) bacteria, making them a promising option as preservatives. Response Surface Methodology (RSM) was employed to determine the optimized Berberine loaded SKEO NE (Berberine/SKEO NE), resulting in a mean droplet size of 88.60 nm at 6.91, 3.21, and 0.08% w/w of surfactant, essential oil, and Berberine, respectively. Berberine utilization in SKEO NE has led to an increase in antibacterial activity. The nanoemulsion samples significantly ruptured the S. aureus bacterial cell membrane, rapidly discharging cell contents. The use of a microfluidic system in tandem based on the conventional approach significantly accelerated this process. Enhancing the interaction between nanodroplets and the bacterial membrane can be achieved through the nanoemulsification process of EOs, which involves modifying their surface characteristics. This enhancement is particularly pronounced when employing microfluidic systems due to their substantial contact surface area. We investigated the potential of using femtosecond laser irradiation at a wavelength of 1040 nm to augment the antibacterial action of nanoemulsions. The combined treatment of laser and nanoemulsions significantly increased the antibacterial effect of nanoemulsions by approximately 15% for each bacterium, suggesting the potential utility of this treatment to bolster the antibacterial activity of nanoemulsions. Bacteria were trapped using optical tweezers for up to 20 min, with bacterial destruction observed starting at 3 min and exhaustive destruction evident after 20 min.

Food Safety and Halal Certification Seminar Towards Mandatory Halal Food in October 2024

Food safety and halal certification are important aspects of the food industry in Indonesia, especially ahead of the mandatory halal certification in October 2024. This seminar aims to increase the understanding of food business actors about the importance of producing safe and halal food, as well as providing information about the process and requirements of halal certification. The methods used are seminars and interactive discussions organized by the collegiate association of Senior High School 2 Kediri (Ikasmada) on March 30, 2024. This seminar was attended by 39 collegiate who have businesses in the food sector and other. The results of the seminar showed an increase in participants' understanding of food safety regulations, the process of applying for a home industry product distribution permit, and self-declare halal certification. Interactive discussions generated questions about halal certification regulators, technical applications for home industry product distribution permit and halal certification, and suggestions for programs related to micro small business and food safety. In conclusion, this seminar is useful in providing insight and motivating food businesses actors to take care of licensing and halal certification to support government programs towards mandatory halal food in October 2024.

Role of Food Safety Regulations in Protecting Public Health.

Food safety is a critical public health issue worldwide as the consumption of unhygienic food causes millions of illnesses annually. The contaminated food is primarily unsafe due to the presence of microorganisms (i.e. bacteria and viruses), chemicals (i.e. pesticides and heavy metals), and physical hazards (i.e. glass, metal and plastic). Foodborne illnesses such as salmonellosis, campylobacteriosis, listeriosis, E. coli infection, botulism, cholera, norovirus infection, and others are commonly caused by the problems associated with food hygiene. From the modest beginnings rooted in basic hygiene practices to the sophisticated frameworks of the modern era, the journey of food regulatory bodies has been marked by a commitment to protect consumers from the hazards associated with foodborne illnesses. In India, the 'Food Safety and Standards Authority of India sets standards, inspects food businesses, and acts against food safety violators. However, there is still more work to be done, including the effective enforcement of regulations, and thoroughly educating the consumers about food safety. The need of the hour is a multi-dimensional collaboration among different stakeholders to ensure that everyone has access to safe and nutritious food. In developing countries, the hurdles in preventing food adulteration include poor consumer awareness and insufficient resources for the enforcement of food regulations. Despite complications, the 'Food Safety and Standards Authority of India' is committed to improving food safety for consumers through cooperation with other agencies, increased enforcement, and public awareness initiatives. Developing countries face lots of challenges in regulating the safety of loose milk and street foods; including the problems of traceability, resource limitations, variety of techniques, cultural acceptance, and financial concerns. A multifaceted strategy that includes infrastructural development, consumer education, regulatory strengthening, and technological acceptance is needed to overcome all these problems linked to the safety of street foods and loose milk. Food regulators must set strict guidelines, conduct regular inspections, and licenses and training for various stakeholders involved. Proper education for customers should increase awareness and provide them with the latest information related to food safety. Access to clean water, sanitary facilities, waste management, and technological adoption should be the main priorities of infrastructure development. Challenges of traceability and labelling in loose milk and street foods include the threats of adulteration, inability to determine the origin, and improper labelling. Vendor registration, uniform labelling, stringent enforcement of food safety regulations, improved supply chain monitoring, consumer education, and technological adoption are all necessary to fully address these problems of food safety.