Cape Town — The United Nations Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO) has launched an Internet portal providing information on food safety and food quality standards.

"The portal will enable a speedy and authoritative search for current food safety and food quality standards, regulations and other relevant official materials from a single search tool," says an FAO statement.

Food safety, standards and security have become important for developing countries, not only in ensuring their populations are well fed, but that they are able to compete in the global economy.

The portal, www.ipfsaph.org, was launched at an FAO regional conference being held in Malaysia.

It "provides accurate and easily accessible information on food safety and quality trade standards, which will make it easier for developing countries to upgrade their food safety systems so they can take advantage of export opportunities," says FAO assistant director-general Hartwig de Haen.

The Web site was financed by FAO, the US, the Netherlands and Norway.