WHO reports 866 million foodborne illnesses and 1.5 million deaths annually

The World Health Organization released a new analysis ahead of World Food Safety Day on 7 June 2026, estimating that unsafe food causes about 866 million illnesses and 1.5 million deaths each year. Children under five are disproportionately affected, facing roughly three times the risk of older groups and accounting for 29 % of the health burden, including 143 000 deaths in 2021. The report highlights regional inequities, with Africa and South‑East Asia responsible for three‑quarters of cases and 60 % of deaths. Economic losses from foodborne disease were estimated at $310 billion in lost productivity, rising to $647 billion when adjusted for purchasing‑power parity.

The WHO calls for stronger water, sanitation and hygiene measures, stricter food‑safety regulations, and better monitoring of chemical hazards such as arsenic and lead, which together account for the majority of deaths. The 2026 World Food Safety Day theme, “From burden to solutions – safe food everywhere,” underscores the need for coordinated global action.

In South Africa, Cape Town’s health department reported a three‑year low of 13 food‑borne illness cases this financial year, reflecting intensive inspection and education programmes. Conversely, Nigeria continues to grapple with widespread contamination, with salmonellosis, cholera and E. coli outbreaks contributing to health system strain and economic losses.