Impact of Environmental Pollution on Food Safety and Human Health

Abstract

Environmental pollution poses significant risks to food safety and human health in Pakistan. Industrial effluents, excessive agrochemical use, and unsafe irrigation practices introduce heavy metals, pesticide residues, and microbial contaminants into the food chain. These pollutants compromise food quality, lower nutritional value, and trigger both acute and chronic health problems, including foodborne diseases, organ damage, developmental disorders, and cancer. Vulnerable groups such as children and pregnant women face heightened risks due to physiological susceptibility and exposure levels. Weak regulatory enforcement, inadequate surveillance, and limited public awareness further exacerbate these threats. This review highlights the sources and impacts of environmental contaminants on food safety, assesses their associated health risks, and emphasizes the urgent need for policy reforms, sustainable agricultural practices, and effective regulatory systems. Strengthening food safety infrastructure, adopting integrated pest management, improving water treatment, and enhancing food safety education are essential steps to safeguard human health and ensure sustainable food systems in Pakistan.