AIMS Challenges FSA Claims on Veterinary Presence in Meat Establishments
The Association of Independent Meat Suppliers (AIMS) has hit back at recent claims by Food Standards Agency (FSA) Chair, Susan Jebb, regarding the necessity of constant veterinary oversight in meat establishments.
AIMS contends that the FSA’s stance undermines the legal responsibilities of food business operators (FBOs) and fails to acknowledge the effectiveness of modern food safety technologies.
Dr Jason Aldiss, Head of External Affairs at AIMS, criticised the FSA’s approach, stating, “The suggestion that standards would fall without full-time vets onsite is misleading and disregards the legal responsibility FBOs have for food safety.” He added that the FSA’s current stance represents a shift away from its original risk-based approach and towards a risk-averse model that unnecessarily prioritises veterinary presence.
“The law is clear: FBOs are responsible for food safety, while veterinarians are there to verify compliance, not to manage daily operations,” said Dr Aldiss.
The UK’s meat industry is globally recognised for its high standards, largely driven by the businesses themselves. AIMS argues that technology, such as blockchain and artificial intelligence, offers more effective and efficient oversight than traditional veterinary presence, which adds significant costs without improving safety outcomes.
AIMS is now calling for the FSA to embrace more modern, technology-led solutions to maintain the UK’s world-leading food safety standards, rather than relying on outdated veterinary controls.
