Food Industry News: August/September 2018

Fighting Antimicrobial Resistance

Based off a new report from the FAO, OIE, and WHO, countries are stepping up to help tackle antimicrobial resistance (AMR). The report charts progress in 154 countries, but reveals some discrepancies. While some European nations have been working on AMR policies for humans and animal sectors for over 40 years, others have only recently taken action to contain this growing threat. Progress in developing and implementing plans is greater in high-income than low-income countries but all countries have scope for improvement. No place has sustained capacity in all areas. The report looks at surveillance, education, monitoring, and regulating consumption and use of antimicrobials. The most promising findings are in 105 countries that have surveillance systems to report drug-resistant infections, and 68 countries with systems to detect consumption of antimicrobials. Report also highlights the animal and food sectors, where there is an urgent need for more investment and action. For example, only 64 countries follow FAO-OIE-WHO recommendations to limit the use of critically important antimicrobials for growth promotion in animal production.

FPSA Creates New Pet Food Council

The Food Processing Suppliers Association (FPSA) creates a new Pet Food Council, joining the Association’s existing five industry Councils including Bakery, Beverage, Dairy, Meat, and Prepared Foods. FPSA Councils form the backbone of the Association with each group having representation on the Board of Directors and helping to guide all programs so that they are relevant for all major industry segments. The Pet Food Council, the first new Council in the last 12 years, will meet over the coming months with the objective of electing their leadership and deciding what they want to achieve.