Snyder, Chinese Delegation Meet to Discuss Trade and Food Safety Regulations
Delegation training at Battle Creek's International Food Protection Training Institute
May 7, 2012
Battle Creek, MI - Recently, Governor Rick Snyder welcomed a delegation of senior government food protection officials from China here to participate in an in-depth training program titled: "Leadership Seminar in Global Food Protection" at the International Food Protection Training Institute in Battle Creek. The Training Institute is the leader in delivering career-spanning, standards-based food safety training.
This is the first of many planned international training programs to be delivered in Battle Creek that are the direct result of Snyder's trade mission to China in September 2011.
"The partnership between the Chinese, Training Institute, and the State of Michigan will strengthen their skills in food safety protocols as well as regulatory oversight of the food supply in their country," said Snyder. "In today's global marketplace, it's vital that we maintain consistent food safety standards no matter where it's produced."
The Leadership Seminar in Global Food Protection is a two and a half-day course that gives an overview of efforts in the U.S. food safety regulatory field to ensure a safe food supply. Special attention is given to the Food Safety Modernization Act (FSMA), the most comprehensive food safety legislation passed in the U.S. since 1938. Through this training, international leaders will be able to assure consistency in overseeing the safety of their food supply.
"The global food supply is highly interconnected," said Gerald Wojtala, Executive Director of the International Food Protection Training Institute. "It is essential that food safety be a top priority for Michigan and for countries seeking to improve the system, engage in new markets, and ensure marketability of safe food and ingredients for domestic consumption and exportation."
"Ensuring a wholesome and safe food supply continues to be a priority for Michigan's consumers and our growing food processing industry," said Keith Creagh, director, Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development. "The public-private partnership with the Training Institute, Mead Johnson Nutrition, and Michigan State University is helping build the training infrastructure for the nation's integrated food safety system."
The Training Institute in Battle Creek is an example of the many scientific and technological resources in Michigan that can attract international food and agriculture professionals to do business here. The Training Institute delivers career-spanning, standards-based training in food protection for U.S. and international regulatory officials as well as the food industry.
About the Training Institute
The Training Institute is a member of the Global Food Protection Institute, a 501 (c) (3) non-profit organization driving the adoption of food protection policies and practices for a safer global food supply. The Institute's mission is to improve public health and reduce mortality, morbidity and economic costs associated with foodborne illnesses.
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