August 2006
Poultry processors say strict processing standards are already in place.
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 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 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."
ENDS