What is the difference between FOOD SAFETY and FOOD HYGIENE?

It is a common misconception that food safety and food hygiene are of the same meaning. Many might use these terms interchangeably. This can confuse people who do not have enough knowledge on the area of both concepts. Let’s differentiate the two for better understanding.

Food Safety is the set of practices one must observe for the food to be free from hazards. It ensures that the food we eat is fit for consumption. It encompasses all aspects of ensuring the food’s condition. Food safety starts from ensuring the cleanliness of food up to its quality and how suppliers market the product.

In the Philippines, the main framework for Food Safety is the Food Safety Act of 2013. The law aids to both the industry and the consumers. It aims to protect the public from foodborne illnesses and for the industry to practice fair trade policies.

Food Hygiene is an element of Food Safety. One of the practices needed to observe is the cleanliness of the food the people eat. It ensures that food is free from hazards. Factors such as contamination, food temperature, and the use of materials are in the scope of Food Hygiene.