Province launches Meat Industry Engagement Panel

WOODSTOCK – The Ontario government announced a new collaboration with the meat processing sector to continue to increase food safety in the province while supporting economic growth opportunities.

Ernie Hardeman, Minister of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs and Carol Goriup, president – Meat & Poultry Ontario launched the new Meat Industry Engagement Panel.

The Meat Industry Engagement Panel provides a forum for industry representatives to engage with ministry leadership and staff. It is composed of ministry, Meat & Poultry Ontario (formerly known as Ontario Independent Meat Processors) and meat plant operator representatives.

“Meat & Poultry Ontario is committed to promoting best practices to ensure safe, nutritious and sustainable food for Ontarians,” said Goriup in a press release. “The Meat Industry Engagement Panel will enable us to provide insights to government and help improve programs to be science-informed, risk-based and outcome focused.”

Through their meetings, panel members will share ideas and collaborate on ways to address industry challenges. Topics will include an opportunity to discuss proposed government policies, guidelines and other inspection modernization initiatives, which will provide greater transparency in the science-informed, risk-based, decision-making processes.