ARLINGTON, VA — June 3, 2009 — The Food Marketing Institute (FMI) issued the following statement from Leslie G. Sarasin, president and chief executive officer, regarding today’s hearing by the House Energy and Commerce Subcommittee on Health about the Food Safety Enhancement Act of 2009.


“Today’s testimony by Mike Ambrosio, Vice President of Quality Assurance at Wakefern Food Corporation, showcases the more than 30 years he has dedicated to improving food safety. He represents the commitment of all FMI members to this singular priority.”


“FMI supports many policy initiatives in the draft Food Safety Enhancement Act legislation because they are clearly intended to prevent problems in the food supply before they ever occur. Preventing food safety problems from occurring by mitigating risk must be the guiding principle for changes.”


“FMI seeks for federal agencies to focus their attention and manpower on prevention programs to ensure that America’s food is safe before it reaches grocery store shelves. This includes: adopting risk-based systems; expanding use of third-party certification programs; requiring mandatory recall authority; enhancing traceability; and, requiring food safety plans of every company manufacturing food.”


“Food retailers and wholesalers believe that given today’s global marketplace it is critical to provide the FDA with the necessary authority, credibility and resources to assure the safety of America’s food supply.”


Photos available upon request.