Food Laws and Regulations Related to Food Security

Food is essential for sustaining a healthy life and well-being; food safety is a fundamental human right. Every nation needs effective food safety regulations to facilitate safe and nutritious food. Healthy food can only be governed through strict regulations and laws. Globally, billions of people are at stake due to food adulteration, where millions suffer from health issues, and approximately thousands die a year. The COVID-19 pandemic also affected food security across vulnerable countries, which may lead to an economic slowdown, limit food supply, and increase poverty. Worldwide, pesticide poisoning has become a significant concern. In developing countries, deaths are primarily caused by pesticides and their residues. A deficient surveillance system and training, poorer regulation, less enforcement, and a lack of information systems are the main consequences of the misuse of pesticides. Pesticide poisoning has become critical in developed countries where heavy pesticide usage may lead to contaminated water resources and deteriorate the food chain. In India, the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) has been set up to govern food regulatory compliance. FSSAI has effectively implemented new food safety measures in the last few years. IFPRI Food Policy Report has lately evidenced the significant roles of women in ensuring food security and strengthening the three pillars of food security through various programs that can improve their abilities to fulfill their roles. This chapter discusses national and international food laws and regulations and compares them. Significant development has been observed in pesticide sale regulations and usage in developing and developed countries. Presently, many countries harbor regulatory agencies for implementing laws for pesticide use, which is also a point of discussion. This chapter also highlights the global food balance and the potential implications of COVID-19 on the global food supply and SDG-2.