Prop B On The Docket For

April Luncheon 

USFRA Hopes To Change Belief That Food Production On The Wrong Track

When consumers think a 'recall' indicates a failure in the food system while producers say such an action shows how  well the system  works, you know there's work to be done in closing the perception gap. Hugh Whaley, General Manager of the U.S. Farmers and Ranchers Alliance, made that point during his presentation to Council members at the March meeting. The luncheon also marked the observance of National Ag Day. He noted current consumer perceptions about the food industry are derivatives of fear and insecurity fueled by the media and pop culture. Almost 60 percent of Americans think the nation's approach to food production is on the wrong track, according to research by the Edelman firm.

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KBA Backs Animal Health Innovation Center

In late February the Kansas Bioscience Authority approved a $1 million financing plan to establish the National Center of Animal Health Innovation which will combine the talents and resources of area companies with regional universities and government agencies to develop new animal health products. The first order of business over the next 12 months will be the selection of a CEO and the appointment of advisers and board members. Additional financing will be available when a strategic plan is developed and an operational blueprint is drafted. This will be the fourth center of innovation created by the KBA to link researchers with industrial partners to develop and commercialize new technologies. The others include the Kansas Alliance for Biorefining and Bioenergy; the Center of Innovation for Biomaterials and Orthopaedic Research; and the Heartland Plant Innovations.

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CFI Studies How Internet Molds Opinions on Food Systems

Aon To Host Webinar on Food Safety Modernization Act

Aon Risk Solutions will present a webinar program, April 29 from 11 am to noon CDT, reviewing the mandates, implications and compliance procedures of the Food Safety and Modernization Act (FSMA) which became law in January. Considered the most the expansive food industry legislation in more than 70 years, FSMA introduces new requirements for manufacturers, processors, packers, distributors, receivers, land holders and importers. Although the law excludes farms and restaurants, and contains some exemptions for small businesses and specialty markets, policy specialists and agribusiness lawyers recommend anyone involved in the U.S. food system become familiar with the provisions and the timetable of FSMA.

FDA Says Japan Catastrophe No Threat to U.S. Food Supply

The FDA has responded to public concerns about U.S. food safety in the aftermath of the Japanese earthquake and tsunami, addressing whether radiation leaks from its disabled nuclear power generating plants would have an impact. The agency posted its reassurances that the risk is minimal with a Q&A on its website: http://www.fda.gov/NewsEvents/PublicHealthFocus/ucm247403.htm.  It provides frequent updates of its assessments. 

Council member Frank Bryant, president of SES, Inc., Overland Park, Kansas, who recently joined the Food and Agriculture Sector Coordinating Council (SCC) which represents the private sector on homeland security issues, can provide further insight into the situation in Japan as well as other security issues.  For the complete text of the FDA Q&A regarding Japan, CLICK HERE.