A multi-industry initiative is underway to enhance food safety culture across the supply chain. The Alliance to Stop Foodborne Illness is a collaborative effort that unites major food companies with consumers who have been affected by food safety issues. The goal of this alliance is to foster positive changes in food safety practices to prevent future incidents and protect public health.
The Need for Food Safety Improvement
According to Vending Market Watch Magazine, an estimated 48 million Americans suffer from foodborne illnesses each year. Of that 48 million, 128,000 people must be hospitalized, and 3,000 die due to foodborne pathogens. These concerning statistics underscore the critical need to enhance food safety practices.
The Alliance Members
When founded in 2018, the Alliance comprised ten companies committed to advancing food safety cultures. Today, it boasts over 20 industry members, including companies and organizations such as the American Frozen Food Institute, Cargill, Chipotle Mexican Grill, Conagra Brands, Consumer Brands Association, Costco Wholesale, Empirical Foods, The Hershey Company, JBS, Maple Leaf Foods, Mars, Nestlé, PepsiCo, TreeHouse Foods, Walmart, Wawa, and Wegmans. These organizations collaborate to promote food safety as a central value within the food system.
Uniqueness of the Alliance
The Alliance stands out because it focuses on collaboration between food companies and consumers regarding food safety culture. No other group emphasizes this partnership. Additionally, the Alliance exists to support those affected by food safety failures, advocating for prevention and policy improvements.
Innovative Initiatives
The Alliance continues to expand its reach and services. One notable example is the online food safety culture toolkit designed for small- and medium-sized companies. Over 600 companies across 81 countries have accessed this free resource to-date. By sharing best practices, the Alliance aims to reduce foodborne illnesses.
Engaging with Stakeholders
The Alliance collaborates with a variety of stakeholders across the food system like academics, consumers, farmers, food associations, food companies, and regulators to improve food safety practices. Their efforts focus on advancing food safety culture beyond the basic standards and regulations, ensuring a higher level of protection and awareness throughout the industry.
Commenting on this story, one national food safety attorney said, “By working together, these organizations aim to prevent illness and death caused by foodborne pathogens. Safety remains paramount, and the Alliance’s collaborative approach is a promising step toward a safer food supply.”
