SOUTH Australian based meat and food processor Thomas Foods International has launched a voluntary livestock certification program to improve transparency and verification for overseas customers.

The family-owned company said the program, the Thomas Family Guarantee, would not be mandatory nor involve any cost to producers.

The company is asking producers to enrol and TFI livestock assurance co-ordinator Dayna Grey believed every TFI producer would be well-placed to meet the requirements of the TFG.

The company said greater supply chain transparency is an essential ingredient in securing and building the future appetite for Australian meat.

“In this highly competitive global market, consumers understandably want reassurance they are receiving top quality produce,” TFI national livestock manager Paul Leonard said.

“Australia already has a reputation for high quality.

“However, it’s important for our industry and farmers across the country, that we continue to provide proof of this comparative advantage.

“By providing transparency and verification through meaningful quality assurance programs we can continue to access lucrative target markets for Australian primary producers.”

TFOI said the Thomas Family Guarantee aimed to protect, and build on, Australia’s reputation for the highest quality, ethically and sustainably raised beef, lamb, mutton and goat products.

Under the Thomas Family Guarantee certification, produce will be verified as meeting labelling requirements including:

• Raised without Antibiotics
• No Added Hormones
• Humanely Raised
• Sustainable

It also incorporates optional additional programs for Grass Fed, Grain Fed and Organic classifications.

The company said TFG audits would be random annual audits. Regularity of audits will be decided by the disclosure of TFI internal audits depending on previous audit performance. The company said the ’humanely-raised’ claim is covered in animal welfare practices and training is required for LPA certification and through the induction procedures of employees.

Mr Leonard said this is a non-onerous, concise and standardised program that provides the key supply chain information markets across the globe are demanding of imported meat products, particularly in the USA and European Union.

“Ultimately, the Thomas Family Guarantee is all about securing the best outcomes for our customers and suppliers.”

For more information go to: https://thomasfoods.com/livestock-suppliers/