Science Cultivation

Science Cultivation

An Overview of Food Security and Safety and the Role of Modern Technologies

Document Type : Promotion Article

Authors
Mohammad Sadegh Oliaei 1
Farid Nasiri 2
Asadollah Asadi 3
Reza Yousefi 2
1 Department of Research and Technology, Ministry of Science, Research and Technology, Tehran, Iran
2 Institute of Biochemistry and Biophysics (IBB), University of Tehran, Tehran, Iran
3 Department of Biology, University of Mohaghegh Ardabili, Ardabil, Iran
Abstract
Food security and safety despite their close association, are considered two distinct areas in ensuring the health and sustainability of human societies, where novel technologies, both digital and non-digital, play a significant role in their realization. Considering the importance and complexity of defining food security, this article first elaborates on the fundamental concepts and various dimensions of this field, as well as examining major challenges such as food waste and loss. Subsequently, the role of novel technologies in transforming this ground is addressed, and advancements like Artificial Intelligence and the Internet of Things in the macro-management of food security issues, along with the concept of "smart food cities" are introduced and their applications studied. Then, food safety and its related issues are specifically investigated, and the importance of employing smart methods such as blockchain technology, along with advanced biochemical and biomolecular tools (e.g., mass spectrometry, food proteomics, and CRISPR technology) to ensure food safety is elaborated. The World Health Organization (WHO) and the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) have designated June 7 of each year as World Food Safety Day. The theme for the 2025 observance is “Food Safety: Science in Action”. Accordingly, we also emphasize the importance of investing in research and promoting education on scientific topics related to food safety.
Keywords
Food security
Food safety
Sustainable development
Food proteomics
CRISPR technology
 
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Science Cultivation
Volume 15, Issue 2 - Serial Number 30
December 2025
Pages 173-181

  • Receive Date 06 November 2025
  • Revise Date 06 December 2025
  • Accept Date 13 December 2025