WHO estimates of the global burden of foodborne diseases 2000-2021: key findings

This key findings report presents updated World Health Organization (WHO) estimates of the global burden of foodborne diseases for 2000–2021, covering 42 biological and chemical hazards across 194 WHO Member States. In 2021, foodborne diseases caused an estimated 866 million illnesses, 1.52 million deaths and 57.1 million disability-adjusted life years (DALYs) worldwide. Diarrhoeal diseases accounted for most illnesses, while noncommunicable diseases associated with chemical hazards caused the majority of deaths and DALYs. Children under five experienced a disproportionate burden, particularly from diarrhoeal diseases, and substantial regional disparities persisted despite declining disease burden rates over the study period.

The 2026 edition expands the range of hazards assessed and incorporates updated systematic reviews, structured expert judgement and hierarchical imputation modelling. It examines geographical and age-related differences, foodborne transmission pathways and associated productivity losses. The updated estimates provide an evidence base for strengthening food safety policies, prioritizing preventive interventions and monitoring progress in reducing the global burden of foodborne diseases.