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National Food Safety Education Month

It's National Food Safety Education Month - learn how to keep your food safe and healthy with tips, tricks, and important information!

Tuesday

1–30

September 2026

Last updated February 7, 2026 · by the Holiday Calendar Team

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YEARLY DATEAll of September

OBSERVED INUnited States

CATEGORYAwareness

SUBCATEGORYPublic Health

INTRO

Introduction

PHOTO

September is not just the start of autumn, but it's also National Food Safety Education Month! This important month-long observance was first established in 1994 to raise awareness about the importance of food safety and proper handling practices. With foodborne illnesses affecting millions of people each year, this month serves as a reminder to take precautions and educate ourselves on how to keep our food safe. So let's dig in and learn more about the history of this holiday and some tips for keeping our meals tasty and free from harm!

TIMELINE

National Food Safety Education Month Timeline

Birth of FDA

President Lincoln's appointment of a chemist, Charles Wetherill, marked the inception of the Food and Drug Administration (FDA).

Pure Food and Drug Act

The Pure Food and Drug Act was passed, prohibiting misbranded and adulterated food, drinks, and drugs.

Poultry Inspection Act

The U.S. Poultry Inspection Act set mandatory federal inspection standards for processing commercial poultry.

First Food Safety Education Month

September was declared as National Food Safety Education Month, aimed at raising awareness about the importance of food safety.

Food Safety Modernization Act

The FDA's Food Safety Modernization Act (FSMA) was signed into law, shifting the focus from merely responding to contamination to preventing it.

GET INVOLVED

How to Celebrate National Food Safety Education Month

Host a food safety workshop

Invite friends and family to a fun and informative food safety workshop. Share tips and tricks for keeping your food safe and healthy.

CREATE

Create a food safety game

Make learning about food safety fun by creating a game that includes important information and tips. This can be played with friends, family, or even at a community event.

CHALLENGE

Challenge yourself to cook with new, safe ingredients

Expand your cooking skills by trying out new ingredients that are known for being safe and healthy. This can also be a fun way to discover new recipes.

ORGANIZE

Organize a community clean-up day

Help keep your community safe by organizing a clean-up day to get rid of any potential food hazards. This can also be a great opportunity to educate others about the importance of food safety.

Share food safety tips on social media

Spread awareness about food safety by sharing tips and facts on your social media platforms. Encourage others to do the same and create a chain of knowledge and education.

WHY THIS DAY MATTERS

Why National Food Safety Education Month is Important

It encourages individuals to become more knowledgeable about food safety

Through educational resources and events, National Food Safety Education Month encourages individuals to learn more about food safety practices and become more conscious of the potential risks associated with improper handling and preparation of food. This can lead to healthier and safer cooking habits in the long run.

It promotes safe and healthy eating habits

National Food Safety Education Month serves as a reminder to prioritize food safety when it comes to preparing and consuming meals. By educating people on proper food handling techniques, it helps prevent foodborne illnesses and promotes overall health.

It raises awareness about the importance of food safety regulations

During this month, there is an increased focus on the various laws and regulations in place to ensure that our food is safe for consumption. This helps people understand their rights as consumers and holds companies accountable for following proper food safety protocols.

Related holidays

Worldwide Food Service Safety Month

Let's raise awareness and promote safe food practices this Worldwide Food Service Safety Month - because a healthy meal starts with proper handling!

World Food Safety Day

Don't miss out on World Food Safety Day - join us in promoting safe food handling practices to keep everyone healthy and happy!

National Food Month

Get ready to indulge in all your favorite dishes and discover new delectable treats during National Food Month! Don't miss out on the delicious fun.

National Organic Month

It's time to go green and celebrate National Organic Month! Explore the benefits of organic products and make a positive impact on the environment.

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