The American Feed Industry Association (AFIA) hosted its annual Feed Education Program last week, covering what the animal food industry can expect on food and worker safety from US federal agencies in 2021 and what to look out for when improving biosecurity at feed facilities.

“More than 260 feed industry personnel joined us in learning what is coming down the pike from a new administration and how it could affect our businesses,” said Gary Huddleston, AFIA’s director of feed manufacturing and regulatory affairs. “We know for sure that there will be coronavirus-related safety protections heading our way from OSHA, such as a potential Emergency Temporary Standard, in addition to increased inspections and enforcement.”

The program discussed upcoming priorities for the Environmental Protection Agency, Department of Labour and Occupational Safety and Hazard Administration; the Food and Drug Administration’s inspection plans for 2021; educational opportunities from the AFIA; an update on the AFIA’s Feed Facility of the Year program; and the latest food safety and biosecurity practices for feed facilities.

“Water is the number one area to look at when improving biosecurity in a feed facility,” said Richard Obermeyer, Aviagen’s director of feed production. “Standing water is a bacterial reservoir and a major fomite for viruses and salmonella. Getting rid of any possible water spots is a must.”

The 2022 AFIA Feed Education Program will take place 26 January in Atlanta, Ga., during the International Production & Processing Expo (IPPE). Click here for more information.