An action plan, due to be introduced from November 2018, will aim to address EU consumer concerns following a series of food safety scandals and fraudulent activity at some of Brazil’s major meat processors.
The plan will consist of three elements, beginning with a mapping of European needs in a strategic partnership with French-based consulting agency Phylum. The map will include an insight into the main concerns for consumers and authorities in European countries, as well as the food safety concerns already covered.
The second section will include an in-depth on-site analysis of Brazilian poultry meat facilities, as well as breeding and processing methods.
Finally, an independent scientific committee will be implemented to support the poultry industry as production methods evolve to meet changing consumer demands.
Phylum was created in 1989 to support enterprises in food supply chains, particularly in the animal production sector.
Speaking at SIAL in Paris, France, ABPA said the Brazilian poultry sector had elected to undertake these improvements in the EU as it is an established exporter.
“The Brazilian poultry industry once again demonstrates its capacity to anticipate the needs of the EU, which has earned a reputation as one of the world’s most demanding markets,” said ABPA president Francisco Turra.
“Brazil is known around the world for its poultry meat production, and is recognised for its expertise and performance. The industry as a whole is 100% committed to a process of ongoing innovative progress in order to meet consumer needs.”
Following the food safety probes, ABPA said the entire poultry sector had worked with sanitary authorities to implement corrective and preventive measures to stamp out situations that could lead to corruption.
The Agro+Integrity Programme, launched by Brazil’s Ministry of Agriculture, has been backed by the Brazilian poultry sector in a bid to generate customer confidence. The programme is designed to encourage good manufacturing practices and institutional relationships in the agribusiness sector.