The food animal industry is a cornerstone of global food security, providing essential nutrition to billions and underpinning the economic stability of numerous countries. It's not just a vital source of protein but also a significant contributor to livelihoods, cultural practices, and economies worldwide. Ensuring its health and efficiency is pivotal; as we saw during the COVID-19 pandemic any disruptions can ripple through the supply chain, impacting everything from farm workers to international markets and ultimately, consumer access to nutritious food. The industry's importance in balancing ecological stewardship with economic demands makes it a key focus for innovation and sustainable development practices. I'm excited to share the results of a research study I conducted with several amazing collaborators identifying and prioritizing critical issues facing the food and animal industry.
Through a three round Delphi process a total of 56 critical issues facing the food and animal industry were identified. These issues were then thematically analyzed and grouped into 7 primary themes. The themes below represent the most critical issue areas identified through the process:
Industry Image and Public Relations: The industry's narrative, as perceived by the public, is a foundational concern. Engaging effectively in public discourse is pivotal for shaping the industry's reputation and fostering consumer trust.
Workforce Development and Pipeline: The sector's future depends on cultivating a workforce proficient in contemporary practices and technologies. Training and retaining professionals who are not only technically skilled but also deeply committed to the industry’s values and goals is crucial.
Economic and Environmental Sustainability: These dual objectives stand at a crossroads. The industry's ability to remain economically viable while embracing environmental stewardship reflects a commitment to long-term sustainability.
Animal and Human Health/Well-Being: The industry is tasked with ensuring the welfare of animals and the safety of food products. Adherence to rigorous health standards and effective disease prevention measures is critical to safeguarding public health and maintaining consumer confidence.
Production and Distribution Efficiency: In the face of escalating global demand, refining production and distribution processes through innovative technologies and efficient management is a clear imperative.
Government Regulations and Legislative Relations: Understanding and shaping the regulatory environment through informed policy engagement is essential for an industry subject to complex legal and political factors.
Academic and Research Collaboration: Building robust partnerships with educational and research institutions is necessary to integrate scientific advancements into practical applications within the industry.
These areas are not isolated; rather, they are interrelated components that must be addressed through a coordinated and rigorous approach. Industry leaders, policymakers, and academics alike must come together to prioritize these critical issues, ensuring the industry remains resilient and is positioned for growth in an ever-evolving global landscape. I've included the full manuscript below if you would like to learn more. Please be sure to share your thoughts in the comments section.
Lamm, K. W., Randall, N. L., & Fluharty, F. L. (2021). Critical issues facing the animal and food industry: A delphi analysis. Translational Animal Science, 5(1), 1-10. https://doi.org/10.1093/tas/txaa213
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