By Jamie Martin
In response to USDA’s announcement of a comprehensive “Plan to Bolster Food Safety,” the National Association of State Departments of Agriculture (NASDA) expressed strong support for the USDA’s ongoing efforts to improve food safety and inspection programs.
NASDA CEO Ted McKinney praised the inclusion of state partnerships in the USDA’s food safety plan, which will help better equip USDA Food Safety Inspection Service (FSIS) inspectors and enhance collaborations with state programs.
“NASDA commends Secretary Rollins for including states as key partners in USDA’s Plan to Bolster Food Safety. State meat and poultry inspection programs have been and continue to be essential to protecting consumers and supporting small and mid-sized producers and processors. This collaboration strengthens our food system and delivers clear benefits to farmers, processors, and consumers nationwide,” said McKinney.
Currently, 29 states operate meat and/or poultry inspection programs through cooperative agreements with USDA FSIS. These programs support approximately 1,450 small- and medium-sized processors, providing vital services to local producers. These agreements are primarily funded through USDA’s Talmadge-Aiken and Cooperative Interstate Shipping Programs.
Additionally, NASDA applauded USDA’s earlier increase in funding for food safety cooperative agreements. This increase strengthens the role of states in ensuring a safe and resilient food supply, ensuring local livestock producers can access more efficient processing options.
The USDA’s focus on improving food safety inspection and its collaboration with state programs is crucial for maintaining the integrity of the U.S. food system. This partnership is expected to help address challenges faced by small processors and ensure the continued safety of food products.
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Categories: National