No abstract

World Health Organization (WHO) 1 reports that unsafe food leads to foodborne disease and malnutrition especially in neonates, children, the aged, and the ill. The WHO report revealed that about thirty-one foodborne hazards were responsible for foodborne diseases affecting about 600 million people with an accompanying 420 000

Purpose: Increasing food safety and nutritional concerns the world over has made proper food labeling and verification of food claims mandatory. Food labels offer many functions one of which is establishing communication between food manufacturers and consumers. When food labels bear false information or unverified claims, it defeats the aim of “protecting consumers health and preventing food fraud” as stated by Food and Agriculture Organization. This act poses food safety risks to consumers as in cases of food allergies. This study aimed at reviewing the current situation of food labeling and food claims in different regions including Africa, Europe, America and Asia; the safety implications of improper food labeling and unverified food claims, and the role of government, consumers and manufacturers as stakeholders in ensuring proper food labeling. Methodology: Several scholarly works were consulted and screened for information relevant to the subject. Most previous studies on food labeling revolved around awareness and consumer behavior towards usage of labels on prepackaged foods. Information regarding the food safety implication of claims on food label was found to be scarce. Findings: Results from this review reveal progress so far while encouraging Food Scientists, Food Microbiologists, Food Developers, Plant Scientists and relevant professional bodies to research and provide more insight towards plant/food ingredients and their potential to offer nutrient and health benefits in order to substantiate current and future food claims. Recommendations: Intensification of efforts by the government and regulatory bodies towards regulation of food labeling and usage of logos; verification and approval of health and nutritional claims is recommended, especially in developing countries. Sensitization of consumers (especially the elderly and consumers with special health needs) by nutritional society groups, government and non-governmental bodies is also recommended to ensure correct understanding and interpretation of nutrient and health claims.

Foodborne diseases pose a primary global health concern, affecting people across high- and low-income countries, with the less privileged often suffering the most. This research proposes the adoption of a Hygiene Rating Scheme (HRS) to help customers make informed decisions about where and what to eat. The scheme has already demonstrated success in countries such as the United States, Northern Ireland, Wales, and England in reducing the risk of foodborne diseases. This article highlights the significance of Nigeria embracing the HRS and its potential to combat foodborne diseases. Adopting the scheme will incentivize food business owners to improve their sanitary conditions and food quality by implementing Good Manufacturing Practices (GMPs). The scheme’s transparent inspection results make it easier for customers to choose higher-rated outlets, reducing the cost of disease outbreaks and promoting public health. In conclusion, the HRS provides a practical solution to addressing the issue of foodborne diseases and promoting food safety.