June 9th 2020 marks World Accreditation Day (#WAD2020), a global initiative established by ILAC (International Laboratory Accreditation Cooperation) and IAF (International Accreditation Forum) to promote the value of accreditation.

This year’s theme focuses on how accreditation improves food safety, supporting the confidence of consumers, suppliers, purchasers, regulators and specifiers in the quality and safety of food.

A joint statement released by the Chairs of IAF and ILAC introduces the importance of accreditation in food safety, noting how it ensures competent and impartial inspection, certification and testing services in all parts of local, national and international food chains. In doing so, accreditation supports the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly Good Health and Well-being (SDG 3).

IAF and ILAC have produced a brochure and poster to highlight worldwide examples of the role accreditation plays in food safety.  Further examples and research are available on the Public Sector Assurance and Business Benefits websites. A video is also available on the IAF/ILAC YouTube channel.

Follow ILAC and IAF on Twitter for more information about accreditation in the food safety sector in the period leading up to WAD.

While the COVID-19 pandemic and resulting social distancing policies may disrupt physical WAD events, we encourage you to celebrate with us online. Use the hashtag #WAD2020 to contact your local accreditation body for further details on local media and online seminars and programs they may be organising.