18 May 2016

Ray McVinnie announced SPCA Blue Tick goodwill ambassador

One of New Zealand’s most respected food authorities takes on a new role

Ray McVinnie, professional chef, experienced food judge, award winning food writer, experienced food stylist and former AUT lecturer has added the role of SPCA Blue Tick goodwill ambassador to his busy schedule.

The SPCA Blue Tick is New Zealand’s only 100 per cent independent high animal welfare accreditation scheme. SPCA Blue Tick certifies eggs, chicken, pork and turkey products that have been farmed to the scheme’s stringent welfare standards.

“Ray is well known and respected in the industry and we are thrilled to have him on board to help us increase awareness of an important topic,” says SPCA Blue Tick Business Unit Manager Ségolène de Fontenay.

“With his strong network and experience, Ray is a natural fit for us to help educate people on the important work of the SPCA Blue Tick scheme. His vote of confidence in our accreditation adds a sense of trust that we believe will resonate with consumers,” she adds.

In his role, Ray will help educate consumers and the wider food industry on high animal welfare standards, and encourage industry players to support the positive work of the SPCA Blue Tick scheme.

In his first engagement, Ray is doing cooking demonstrations at the Food Shows in Wellington, 20-22 May and Auckland, 28-31 July, where he will use SPCA Blue Tick approved eggs.

*The SPCA Blue Tick will also be present at the Wellington Food Show to engage with consumers wanting to learn more about the accreditation.

Ray will also showcase SPCA Blue Tick approved products at other events, champion new initiatives and act as the face and voice of campaigns be it PR or advertising campaign.

McVinnie says while it is important to help people, it is just as important to help animals. “I feel fortunate to be associated with a trusted charity that has the priority of high animal welfare at its core,” he notes. “Yes, we eat animals, but that does not mean we should exploit them. I can’t tell farmers how to farm, but by purchasing SPCA Blue Tick approved products, I’m supporting and rewarding those who farm according to high animal welfare standards.”

Ray adds that buying products displaying the SPCA Blue Tick logo is an easy way to stand up for high animal welfare. “I trust the SPCA and the standards compiled by their experts. Their independent auditor, AsureQuality, conducts announced and unannounced audits, so I know it’s food I can trust, it’s a good sign of provenance and it does not contain anything that is bad for me.”

He urges others to take a stand. “You have to do everything you can to make a difference for animals and I look forward to helping the SPCA Blue Tick build awareness of this worthy cause.”

As part of the SPCA Blue Tick’s transparent process, the standards applied by farmers and auditors are available for consumers to download from the SPCA Blue Tick website http://spcabluetick.org.nz

*The SPCA Blue Tick invites consumers to visit its SPCA Wellington shared stand, number 316 during the Wellington Food Show to meet the experts and learn more about high animal welfare.

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