What are the key scientific and technical needs facing the food and drink industry is 2012?
Campden BRI has published a new report addressing this question.
Firstly, it argues that there is a need for continued vigilance in supply chain management in the wake of incidents such as illegal dyes and melamine contamination, ensuring that raw materials, ingredients and products are as specified.
Secondly, that sustainability will continue to be a key driver for the next three to five years, with the emphasis on the need for the sector to embrace sustainability throughout all aspects of the global supply chain.
Other major needs identified include monitoring and managing of emerging hazards, legislation that is both evidence-based and practicable to implement, and replacing skills being lost from the sector through retirement of experienced industry personnel.
“The food and drink industry is Europe’s largest manufacturing sector and a major export industry for the EU, serving our most basic of human needs,” said Leighton Jones, head of corporate communications at Campden BRI.
“It is vital that its ever changing needs are met by the effective application of science and technology – particularly in the face of increasingly rapid globalisation and the continued drive towards greater sustainability – to ensure the sector continues to grow and thrive and provides a safe, secure, sustainable supply of quality food and drink products that meets consumer demand.”
