The Institute of Food and Nutritional Sciences at Pir Mehr Ali Shah Arid Agriculture University Rawalpindi partnered with the Global Alliance for Improved Nutrition to mark World Food Safety Day 2025, bringing students, researchers and regulators together to advance farm-to-fork safety in Pakistan. The event highlighted how Food Safety links to nutrition and climate resilience and encouraged practical collaboration across sectors.
Vice Chancellor Prof. Dr. Qamar-uz-Zaman praised IFNS for the initiative and stressed that robust food safety systems are essential for national health, sustainable development and economic growth. He urged the institute to continue public engagement and research that empower youth and connect academia with industry and policymakers to strengthen Pakistan’s food value chains.
Speakers examined emerging threats to food integrity as climate change alters production and supply chains, and they underscored the need for strengthened regulatory oversight and science-based standards to protect consumers. Discussions focused on actionable measures to ensure safe handling, storage and distribution across the supply chain so that Food Safety is maintained from farm to fork.
Youth representatives presented creative proposals for future funding and innovation, proposing pilot projects and research collaborations that could improve food quality monitoring and reduce climate-driven risks. The session aimed to turn student ideas into measurable outcomes by linking young innovators with mentors in government and industry.
The gathering served as a platform for dialogue and joint planning, with participants agreeing to expand training, awareness campaigns and cross-sector partnerships. Emphasis was placed on aligning efforts with Sustainable Development Goals related to zero hunger, good health and climate action, and on translating research into policies that protect consumers across Pakistan.
By fostering youth engagement and reinforcing cooperation between academic institutions, regulatory bodies and the private sector, the event positioned PMAS-AAUR and IFNS as active contributors to national efforts that prioritize Food Safety and long-term resilience of the country’s food systems.
