Science in Action: Celebrating World Food Safety Day 2025 in Retail

By Ashley Eisenbeiser, Vice President, Food and Product Safety Programs, FMI

Every June 7, World Food Safety Day serves as a global reminder that protecting public health begins with protecting our food. This year’s theme, “Food Safety: Science in Action,” highlights the importance of applying scientific principles throughout the supply chain to prevent foodborne illness.

For food retailers, food safety is not a once-a-year concern. From time-temperature controls in prepared foods to strict cleaning protocols and employee training, science is foundational to daily operations. Shoppers are paying attention, too. They expect transparency and reassurance that the food they bring home is safe.

The food industry serves as a valuable resource for food safety information to their customers. To support the industry’s everyday commitment to producing and selling safe food, FMI partners with the Partnership for Food Safety Education (PFSE) to ensure food is kept safe after purchase. PFSE provides access to free, science-based tools to help retailers promote safe food handling at home to both their employees and customers. Their World Food Safety Day resource hub includes ready-to-use graphics, signage and training ideas tailored to retail environments.

Retailers are the final checkpoint in the food supply chain, with a unique opportunity to engage with consumers on food safety. Consider using this year’s observance to:

• Offer brief safety refreshers for employees on handling practices and cross-contamination prevention.
• Share behind-the-scenes food safety efforts on social media using the hashtag #WorldFoodSafetyDay.
• Provide simple food safety reminders to shoppers at checkout or in-store displays.

While technological advances are shaping the future of food safety, a science-based foundation remains a prerequisite in the prevention of foodborne illness.

FMI remains committed to supporting members in this critical work. World Food Safety Day gives us a chance to elevate our members’ everyday food safety efforts — and demonstrate how science supports every safety step we take in stores. Let’s continue to put science in action — because safe food is smart business.

Visit FightBAC.org to explore PFSE’s free World Food Safety Day resources and find retailer-specific guidance at FMI's Food Safety Resources webpage.