DIMAPUR: Secretary, Health & Family Welfare, S. Tainiu stressed that food safety was not only a health issue but also a social and economic concern, as food borne illnesses impose heavy burdens on families, communities, healthcare systems, and businesses.
She was speaking at the 8th World Food Safety Day 2026 observed at Hotel Saramati, Dimapur under the theme “From Burden to Solutions – Safe Food Everywhere.” The programme was organised by the Food Safety Wing, Department of Health & Family Welfare in collaboration with FSSAI and Eat Right India.
In her keynote address, Tainiu highlighted the importance of safe food in sustaining life and enabling individuals to function effectively. She cautioned that unsafe and contaminated food can lead to serious health consequences, including food borne diseases, hospitalisation, and even death. Referring to global estimates, she noted that millions fall ill annually due to contaminated food, with children under five among the most vulnerable.
She emphasized that hotel owners, food handlers, and hospitality establishments have a crucial role in maintaining hygiene, sanitation, safe sourcing, proper storage, and adherence to food safety regulations. She also called for greater awareness of food allergens, emergency response mechanisms, and collective responsibility among stakeholders to promote a culture of food safety.
A thematic presentation was delivered by Dr. John Kemp, State Programme Officer & Food Safety (DHFW), who underscored the importance of surveillance, science based decision making, traceability, and public awareness in reducing foodborne diseases.
Vikie Nagi, Secretary finance, Nagaland Hotel & Restaurant Association, described food safety as the “invisible backbone” of the hospitality industry and assured the association’s cooperation with the department in promoting safe food practices. The programme also featured a hands on training session for hoteliers and stakeholders, with food technicians demonstrating clean hand practices, adulteration detection, and contamination awareness under the theme “Safe Food Begins with Clean Hands.”
The event was chaired by Pelerieno Kehie, designated officer, Dimapur Zone. Invocation was offered by Zuthungbemo K. Ngullie, food technician, and the vote of thanks by Khrukutolu Veswuh, deputy director (Food Analyst), State Public Health Laboratory, Nagaland.
