The General Directorate of Environmental Health and Food Safety (Digesa) of the Ministry of Health marked its 36th anniversary on Apr. 19, reaffirming its role as the national health authority for environmental health and food safety in Peru.
The anniversary ceremony included representatives from the Integrated Health Networks Directorates, the National Authority for Fisheries and Aquaculture Health and Safety (SANIPES), the National Agricultural Health Service of Peru (SENASA), the National Society of Industries, among other institutions. These organizations are described as strategic partners in strengthening sanitary management and promoting healthy environments.
Since its founding, Digesa has focused on regulation, sanitary surveillance, and control over environmental factors affecting public health. This includes oversight of drinking water quality, solid waste management, food safety standards, chemical substance control, and other risks related to the environment.
The institution reports ongoing efforts to strengthen national sanitary surveillance systems through continuous monitoring of physical, chemical, and microbiological parameters. It also supervises services, products, and activities that could impact public health.
Digesa also supports intersectoral coordination and capacity building at regional and local levels by providing technical assistance to regional directorates such as DIRESA and DIRIS. The goal is to standardize technical criteria across entities responsible for enforcing current sanitary regulations.
Over its 36-year history, Digesa says it remains committed to responding effectively during health emergencies while promoting healthy environments that improve quality of life. The Ministry of Health confirms it will continue working with all levels of government to build an efficient system focused on environmental health for all Peruvians.
