Leaders in Food Safety

As you know, food safety continues to be a topic of increased awareness and concern among consumers and food producers alike. In the past year, we have seen a number of incidences concerning food safety that have hit quite close to home. Although our domestic food supply is extremely low risk and is perceived as safe by the general public, one outbreak or recall can be devastating to a food industry.

Currently, our industry has been commended and is looked up to by the regulators and other food industries for its proactive approach to food safety and for its implementation of the pasteurization program. However we cannot sit idle, we must continue to be leaders in this critical endeavor, moving forward with additional food safety and quality control programs; diligently pursuing new methods of prevention, detection and treatment of food pathogens.

For consumers, food safety is a given, an expectation. As growers, huller/shellers and handlers we have a responsibility to see that these expectations are met. We are part of a truly remarkable industry. We produce a healthy product that can only be grown in a few places on this planet. From the farm to the plate it is critical that we use all methods available to us to ensure this healthy product is safe and stays safe.

Sincerely,

Mike Mason, Chairman
Food Quality & Safety Committee