About National Safety Education Month

September is National Food Safety Education Month. Founded by the International Food Safety Council - a coalition of restaurant and food industry professionals - the month is dedicated to promoting safe food preparation and educating consumers about the importance of food safety.

Consumers need to know simple steps they can take to prevent food-borne illness. The Center for Disease Control and Prevention estimates that 76 million persons experience food borne illnesses each year, resulting in 5,000 deaths annually. Though most consumers have a good foundation of food safety knowledge and problem areas, complacency and food safety gaps still exist, and Government research shows that this gap results in increased risk of food-borne illness. Food safety education is vital in helping to combat this public health issue.

The Food, Lodging, and Institutions section is committed to educating the citizens of Craven County during the month of September and throughout the year. Visit the food and safety website for more information.