History of Food Safety and Related Sciences: History of Foodborne Disease in Asia – Examples from China, India, and Japan

Many Asian countries have traditional beliefs that have contributed to food safety. Some of these beliefs have originated from mythological stories that were transmitted orally from one generation to another. Foods were recognized for their health-giving properties and were often mentioned in ancient texts about the practice of traditional medicine. This has given rise to attitudes toward food and food safety that continue to the present day. In the past, trade in food was also subject to adulteration and fraud so that food laws are a common feature of many Asian cultures. This article discusses the history of food safety in Asia with emphasis on China, India, and Japan, which begins with mythology and ends with modern times. Significant incidents involving foodborne disease are also discussed.