Introducing circular processes and policies is one route to agrifood systems transformation, a key accelerator to achieving the Sustainable Development Goals. A circular economy represents a major departure from the current linear production system and from many assumptions underlying existing food safety approaches.

The FAO report, Food safety in a circular economy, provides an analysis of current and emerging evidence on food safety risks in circular food production systems. While circular solutions offer promising sustainability benefits, they also introduce certain food safety concerns, such as the risk of contaminants, antimicrobial resistance and physical hazards. The report examines in depth four major dimensions of concern – water scarcity, food loss and waste, food packaging waste, and land use efficiency.

By exploring these areas, Food safety in a circular economy highlights the importance of addressing potential food safety issues in the context of circular agrifood systems. Food safety policies and principles must be adapted to the unique characteristics of circular agrifood systems. Ensuring food safety requires a collective effort across all levels of the food supply chain, from producers to consumers and regulators. Each stakeholder has a critical role to play in safeguarding food safety as we move towards more sustainable agrifood systems.

Infographic: Food safety in a circular economy

1. Ensuring food safety in a circular economy: four key areas
2. Water recycling and reuse: circular water economy and food safety considerations
3. Food loss and waste: valorizing waste while maintaining food safety
4. Food packaging waste: circular innovations and food safety considerations
5. Integrated farming systems: improving land use efficiency while ensuring food safety

Ensuring food safety in a circular economy