PAHO – Airbnb join forces to prevent foodborne illness

GENEVA, Switzerland – WHO’s 19-year-old campaign and training programme to promote safe food will now have even wider reach.

The Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) is partnering with Airbnb to make food safety resources – such as guidelines, trainings and general tips – for visitors and subscribers to experiences on their website. An online marketplace, Airbnb features accommodations and activities designed for “healthy travel that is local, authentic, diverse, inclusive and sustainable”, which may involve handling food.

The company has produced “Guidelines for Safe Food Handling”, which are based on the WHO’s Five Keys to Safer Food programme, and related written materials will soon be distributed to Airbnb hosts and homes in the Americas to prevent foodborne diseases and reduce food safety risks.

This innovative use of ‘the Keys’ demonstrates the educational campaign’s ongoing relevance and applicability in everyday behaviour to improve health.