Tashkent, Uzbekistan (UzDaily.com) —  A seminar-training dedicated to food safety was held at the Republican state center for diagnostics of animal diseases and food safety in Tashkent.

The event was organized by the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) in collaboration with the State Committee of Veterinary and Livestock Development of the Republic of Uzbekistan within the framework of the joint project "The Pandemic Fund (Uzbekistan): Pandemic preparedness and response through a One Health approach in Europe and Central Asia".  The seminar-training aimed to enhance the qualifications of approximately 30 food safety specialists from all regions of the country, including Karakalpakstan.

Food safety is widely acknowledged as one of the key areas of Uzbekistan's socio-economic policy. The consequences of climate change, such as natural disasters, water shortages for irrigation, and drought, complicate food production. Therefore, ensuring food safety is a global priority, with agriculture playing a significant role in this process.

The seminar-training focused on a deeper understanding of food safety legislation, requirements for testing and calibration laboratories, and the implementation of modern approaches in practice. Participants discussed pressing issues, such as controlling hazardous substances like mycotoxins, antibiotics, and microbiological contamination, as well as measures to ensure consumer health.

The training covered the following topics and areas:

International and national food safety standards,

Methods for controlling contaminants and their laboratory analysis;

Detection and control of veterinary drug residues;

Ensuring hygiene requirements and monitoring at production facilities.

Practical sessions and masterclasses were conducted by international food safety expert Dr. Marco Jauković and FAO specialists. The interactive format of the event allowed participants to share their experiences and strengthen their professional skills.

The seminar-training was attended by specialists from government organizations and food safety laboratories, who significantly enriched their theoretical and practical knowledge in ensuring food safety. At the conclusion of the event, participants were awarded certificates.

This seminar-training became an important step towards ensuring food safety, implementing international standards, and protecting public health in Uzbekistan.