New Administration, New Safety Focus

Our new administration in Washington, DC has its hands full with economic issues, health care, defense, two wars and the all important FOOD SAFETY issues.

As we all know the PCA peanut recall and subsequent recalls from all the manufacturers who received products and ingredients from PCA have dramatically affected the confidence of the American people in our food safety and its regulations. It also has negatively impacted the same companies who have recalled their products. The lost dollars in product value and future sales has caused some of the smaller companies to go out of business and/or file for bankruptsy.

Pres. Obama has named a new leader for the FDA. He has indicated that government will tighten the regulations and improve its inspection branch. Most of the food industry has positively responded to this move. We all know that something must be done.

A food safety group will be reporting on progress in the regulatory branches to the President.

We must be careful to ensure that changes are scientifically based. That changes are able to be initiated quickly without causing substantial cost to the industry. Companies do need a food safety plan. The employees of food companies need to be properly trained. In house inspections with eyes and in house enforcement tougher that the regulatory agencies see and apply. Employees must take the initiative and authority to produce wholesome products.


Certainly the regulatory agencies need more inspectors. But, do you believe that getting to each plant once or twice a year will make a difference. The large companies already have food safety plans. They have HACCP plans. They train in GMP's. They make a concerted effort to produce safe products. Those that trade on the public market are aware of the negative impact of food recalls on their profitability and stock price and retail sales.

There are a considerable number of small food companies who are not thoroughly trained in food safety. They may pass the local health department or state inspection. They may be licensed and registered with the Federal government. But, do they understand all the practices needed to safeguard their products.

We must first practice safe food production and eliminate the chance for contamination and then we need regulation to guide us in our efforts. But, make no mistake about it, if you decide to enter the food industry, you are morally and legally responsible to protect the public. Do not abuse the trust given you by your customers.

BE SAFE

Rudy
rudy@powerinlearning.com