A Feast for Health

From fertile fields to bustling marts, a journey food embarks, 

A symphony of flavors, a canvas etched with sparks. 

But on this day, a pause we take, a vital truth to tell, 

For safety's thread, unseen it runs, in every bite that sells.

The farmer sows with hope in hand, the seeds of life take root, 

Nourished by sun and rain they stand, bearing nature's loot. 

Fruits and vegetables, vibrant hues, a bounty from the ground, 

But unseen threats may lurk and bruise, with illness all around.

The fisherman casts nets so wide, hauling treasures from the deep, 

Seafood's bounty, side by side, a slumbering danger to keep. 

Bacteria's silent, unseen foe, can wreak havoc on the shore, 

Food safety's net, it needs to grow, to guard what ocean's floor.

From bustling farms to factories grand, the food chain takes its hold, 

Processing hands, across the land, stories yet untold. 

Hygiene's flame, it must ignite, in every corner, bright, 

To chase away the growing blight, and keep the future light.

The trucks and trains, a tireless race, deliver to the store, 

Fruits piled high, with tempting grace, a bounty to explore. 

But proper storage, temperatures right, a silent pact we forge, 

To keep the food fresh, day and night, and safety's course to urge.

At home, the kitchen's warmth unfolds, meals prepared with love, 

A story on each plate it holds, a gift from up above. 

But handling with care, a mindful task, ensures health's embrace, 

From fridge to stove, a watchful ask, to keep the danger's trace

From tiny tots to elders wise, a feast for all to share, 

Nourishment for body, mind, and eyes, a world we long to repair. 

But foodborne illness, a hidden foe, can strike without a sound, 

So let's work together, high and low, on common ground.

Governments, with guiding hand, set standards, clear and strong, 

Educate the farming land, where food production's throng. 

Scientists, with keenest eye, research solutions new, 

To combat threats that multiply, and keep our future true.

Consumers too, a role to play, with choices they can make, 

Reading labels, every day, for safety's precious sake. 

Proper storage, cooking right, a mindful kitchen dance, 

Keeps foodborne illness out of sight, and gives health a chance.

So raise a glass, a joyful toast, to food, that gift of life, 

From field to plate, a coast to coast, secure from hidden strife. 

Let World Food Safety Day ignite, a passion strong and keen, 

For healthy meals, a global right, a world where all are clean.

Together, hand in hand we'll stand, a promise whispered low, 

To safeguard food across the land, and watch its bounty flow. 

For health is wealth, a truth untold, on every plate it lies, 

So let's celebrate, young and old, with food that nourishes!

- Khushi Kaul