Maple Leaf appoints leader for animal wellness

 

Maple Leaf Foods has appointed Dr Stephanie Cottee as the company's leader of animal wellness.

Dr Cottee will be responsible for the establishment of an integrated and comprehensive animal wellness programme for Maple Leaf's poultry and pork operations. The programme will include all areas of the company's business which concern animal health and welfare such as nutrition, medication, housing, transportation and processing.

"As Canada's largest meat company, we have a duty to continually advance the humane and ethical treatment of animals within our care," said Lynda Kuhn, senior vice president of Sustainability and Public Affairs. "This requires staying close to emerging science, processes and technologies that advance both our knowledge and capacity, and that of our industry partners, to raise, transport and process animals in a manner that optimises good health and protects their welfare. Dr Cottee's deep experience will be vital in implementing a strong programme that distinguishes Maple Leaf in this vital area of corporate responsibility."

Dr Cottee, who previously worked for Chicken Farmers of Ontario, has an extensive experience in animal behavior, research and welfare. Most recently, she managed the Canadian Quality Assurance and Animal Care Assessment programme as a provincial programmes advisor for Ontario Pork. She is also credited with implementing a national swine traceability programme.