Amman, April 14 (Petra) – Jordan has witnessed a significant drop in foodborne illness cases linked to food establishments, with rates falling from 19 percent in 2022 to just 5 percent in 2024, according to the Jordan Food and Drug Administration (JFDA)’s 2024 Foodborne Illness Incidents and Complaints Survey Report.

This decline positions Jordan among countries with the lowest global rates of food poisoning related to establishments, according to a JFDA statement.

Citing data from the Ministry of Health, the report noted that 66 food poisoning incidents were recorded in 2024, resulting in 505 injuries and no fatalities. This represents a 53.2 percent decrease compared to 2023, which recorded 103 incidents and 1,080 injuries. Notably, 94 percent of 2024’s cases originated from households, while only 5 percent were traced to food establishments.

The report identified June as the month with the highest concentration of establishment-related incidents (30 percent), attributed to elevated temperatures and increased microbial contamination risks. In terms of tested food samples, ready-to-eat meals accounted for 77 percent, followed by white meat and meat products at 15 percent.

JFDA Director General Nizar Mheidat stated that the results underscore the effectiveness of national oversight, field procedures, and awareness programs. The findings also reflect Jordan’s robust model of proactive monitoring, including regular inspection campaigns of high-risk food establishments, legal action against violators, capacity-building programs for inspectors, and enhanced cooperation with stakeholders.

Mheidat highlighted additional proactive efforts such as monitoring food supply chains, tightening controls at border crossings, updating food safety regulations, and launching awareness campaigns targeting schools and communities. These initiatives contribute to the strength of Jordan’s national strategy for food safety and its success in significantly reducing foodborne illness rates.

He emphasized the JFDA’s continued commitment to protecting public health through integrated, evidence-based regulatory approaches and swift, science-driven responses to emerging food safety challenges.

//Petra// AO

14/04/2025 13:48:23