Professor Shamsi contributes to UN Food Safety Panel

Foodborne parasites are a significant cause of illness worldwide, and the impacts are felt even in highly developed food systems. In response to this challenge, expert knowledge from Charles Sturt contributed to an international effort to strengthen food safety standards. Professor Shokoofeh Shamsi was invited to join a United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization panel in Rome, Italy to review scientific advice on foodborne parasites.

Professor Shamsi was one of eight specialists from around the world who contributed to assessing the current disease burden, considering detection methods, and examining practical prevention and control strategies. The panel also considered risks for vulnerable populations and the needs of low and middle-income countries where foodborne infections can have severe consequences.

The group’s findings informed updates to the Codex Alimentarius (or ‘Food Code’), supporting safer and more consistent global food systems. Updating the Food Code supports public health, food safety regulation and safer food trade.