Unsafe food continues to impose a substantial global health burden, causing an estimated 866 million illnesses and 1.5 million deaths annually, according to new estimates released by the World Health Organization (WHO). The findings highlight that children younger than five years remain the most vulnerable group, facing nearly three times the risk of foodborne illness compared with older children and adults. Although children under five account for only 9% of the world's population, they experience nearly one-third of all foodborne disease cases.
Diarrheal illnesses remain a major contributor to morbidity and mortality in this age group. The report also draws attention to the impact of chemical contaminants in food, including lead and methylmercury, which can adversely affect neurodevelopment and lead to long-term neurological and developmental consequences. The updated WHO analysis…
