The safety and quality of the food people consume are closely connected to the health of humans, animals and the environment. This relationship is driving greater attention toward the One Health approach across global agrifood systems.

The concept recognizes that health challenges cannot always be addressed separately. Conditions affecting farms, livestock, wildlife, ecosystems and food production can ultimately influence human health and food security.

The FAO, WHO and Codex Alimentarius framework provides practical tools that countries can use to strengthen food safety and incorporate One Health principles into their agrifood systems.

From agricultural production to food processing, transportation, retail and consumption, every stage of the food chain can influence health outcomes. A weakness at one point in the system can create risks further along the chain.

Foodborne diseases are one example. Contamination can occur during production, processing, handling or preparation. Effective monitoring and food-safety measures can help reduce these risks before products reach consumers.

Animal health is also closely connected to food systems. Diseases affecting livestock and other animals can have economic consequences for farmers while, in certain circumstances, creating risks for people. Cooperation among veterinary, public-health, agricultural and environmental authorities can help identify and address such challenges earlier.

Antimicrobial resistance is another major concern. The inappropriate or excessive use of antimicrobial medicines in humans and animals can contribute to the emergence of resistant microorganisms. Coordinated action across sectors is therefore an important part of addressing the problem.

Environmental conditions also influence food production and health. Water quality, soil conditions, biodiversity and climate-related changes can affect agricultural productivity and the safety and availability of food.

The One Health approach encourages countries to consider these connections when developing policies and programs rather than treating each issue as an isolated problem.

International cooperation is particularly important because food supply chains increasingly cross national borders. Agricultural products, animals, feed and processed foods can move through multiple countries before reaching consumers.

Common standards and practical guidance can help countries strengthen food safety systems while facilitating safer food trade.

The approach also places importance on cooperation among different institutions. Health ministries, agriculture departments, environmental agencies, food regulators, farmers, businesses and researchers all have roles to play in creating safer and more resilient food systems.

For farmers and food producers, prevention can be especially important. Good agricultural practices, animal health management, appropriate use of medicines and effective hygiene measures can reduce risks before they enter the wider food chain.

For consumers, stronger food-safety systems can provide greater protection against avoidable health hazards.

The One Health perspective ultimately emphasizes a simple but important connection: human health does not begin at the dinner table. It is influenced by what happens much earlier, from the condition of agricultural land and water to the health of animals and the practices used to produce and process food.

As countries strengthen their agrifood systems, integrating these connections into policy and implementation can help create food systems that are safer, healthier and more resilient.