Poultry processors defend standards

Poultry processors defend standards

The poultry industry says chicken and red meat face equally tough scrutiny when it comes to disease control and processing standards.

The red meat sector has this week complained that poultry processors should be facing the same strict codes of compliance as the red meat industry.

But the Poultry Industry Association (PIANZ) says red meat industry spokesman Tony Forde’s claims on last night’s TVNZ Close Up programme are completely misinformed.

PIANZ executive director Michael Brooks says New Zealand poultry processors are already working to strict government guidelines.

“The companies have thorough inspection programmes run by qualified and independently trained people who regularly check the birds throughout the process” he says.

“Every company involved in poultry processing must have a registered Risk Management Programme with the New Zealand Food Safety Authority.

“These Risk Management Programmes are regularly audited by the NZFSA’s Verification Agency. The NZFSA also makes regular site inspections.

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