Trend Economic pressure pushing consumers towards food fraud exposure

Summary

In its short-term outlook for foodborne disease, the report considers how economic change may shape consumer behaviour. If economic pressures lead consumers to choose cheaper food, their exposure to food fraud could increase. The report explains that such items include food made without proper oversight, made from unsafe goods or prepared in unhygienic conditions. It also sees vulnerable groups such as children under five, pregnant people, immunocompromised people and older adults as more susceptible to foodborne disease. As a response, the report describes the Food Hygiene Rating Scheme, which rates food businesses on hygiene so consumers can make informed choices about where to eat or shop.