November 27, 2023

 

NSF opens California, US market for UK pork

In a significant development for United Kingdom pork farmers, the National Sanitation Foundation (NSF) has become the pioneering UK certification body for Proposition 12, allowing British pork producers to export to California, United States, New Food reported.

 

The NSF, the only Red Tractor Certification Body for pork in the UK, offers a comprehensive solution for certifying pork production, providing farmers with increased confidence to access the Californian market.

 

Proposition 12, described as a ground-breaking animal welfare law from California, sets higher standards for confining certain farm animals and is set to take effect on January 1, 2024. The Prop 12 certification is essential for British producers aiming to export to the US market, ensuring compliance with Californian animal welfare standards.

 

Dale Newitt, Director of Supply Chain Food Safety at NSF, highlighted the significance of this certification, stating that it allows British pork producers to enter the Californian market with greater confidence, aligning with NSF's mission to improve and protect human health.

 

California accounts for nearly 15% of total US pork consumption, but produces only 1% of pork for local markets, heavily relying on imports. In 2022, the total import of pork in the US exceeded GBP 1.3 billion, making the Prop 12 certification a substantial market opportunity for UK pork producers.

 

NSF is offering bundled auditing, allowing Prop 12 and Red Tractor audits to occur simultaneously, reducing the audit burden on British farmers in a cost-effective and efficient manner. Newitt said that bundled auditing is a game-changer for British farmers, streamlining the process and minimising time and expenses associated with gaining these important certifications.

 

The NSF's commitment to animal wellness is highlighted through its dual certification services, supporting British farmers in meeting the increasingly rigorous standards of both domestic and international markets.

 

Jim Moseley, chief executive officer of Red Tractor, a farm assurance programme for food products, animal feed and fertiliser, hailed the NSF's certification as a crucial milestone for the UK swine sector, offering pig farmers easy access to the Californian market for safe and traceable UK pork.

 

Moseley expressed hope that this update marks the beginning of a productive and ongoing new trading relationship, encouraging the California Department of Food and Agriculture to visit the UK and witness first-hand the high standards maintained by Red Tractor farmers.

 

-      New Food