1.5 million people died of foodborne illnesses in one year. What can you do? | CNN

Foodborne illnesses aren’t just a nuisance after a questionable meal; they are a significant cause of death and severe disease.

An estimated 1.5 million deaths were caused by foodborne illnesses worldwide in 2021, according to a study published Wednesday in the Lancet.

“It is imperative that countries implement strategies to improve food safety to reduce this substantial burden of disease arising from contaminated food,” the study said.

While the number is distressing, it isn’t surprising to experts, said Dr. Harris Wang, chair and professor of the department of systems biology at Columbia University Irving Medical Center. He was not involved in the study.

CHEESE. IMAGE OF TASTY HOMEMADE BURGER WITH MELTING CHEESE, TOMATOES AND GRILLED MEAT. GROUP OF FRIENDS HAVING NICE OUTDOOR PICNIC, MAKING FOOD, DRINKING BEER AND HAVING FUN.