Food safety: A public health priority.

Safe and nutritious food in adequate amounts is required for the sustenance of life and the promotion of good health. However, food provides an environment for microbial growth and, when contaminated, can act as a vector for bacteria, viruses, parasites, and prions, causing food poisoning. Besides, it is often contaminated with toxic chemicals present naturally and/or mixed accidentally or intentionally, which are also potentially harmful. Almost any kind of food can spread disease, and unsafe food is responsible for creating a vicious cycle of disease and malnutrition, affecting all, but particularly infants, young children, and the elderly.