2022 FSC New National Horticulture Standards: Brian Witherspoon
Brian Witherspoon is the Director of Policy and Engagement at Safe Food Production Queensland, where he plays a pivotal role in shaping food safety policies and fostering industry collaboration. With extensive experience in food safety regulation, Brian has been instrumental in developing and implementing strategies to enhance the safety and quality of Queensland’s primary produce. He has actively contributed to national discussions on food safety standards, including the development of new horticulture standards aimed at mitigating risks in the production and processing sectors. Brian’s leadership and expertise continue to drive Safe Food’s mission to protect consumer health and maintain confidence in Queensland’s food production systems.
Presented by Brian Witherspoon, Director of Policy and Engagement at Safe Food Production Queensland, this session provides insights into the new national horticulture standards and their impact on food safety practices in Australia. The presentation covers the scope of these standards, including food safety management statements, traceability, hygiene, and compliance requirements for producers and processors. Brian discusses the coordinated efforts by state and territory regulators and industry groups to ensure consistent implementation, as well as the tools and digital systems being developed for ongoing compliance and monitoring. This session offers a roadmap for businesses to understand their responsibilities under the new standards and enhance consumer confidence in the safety of Australia’s horticulture products
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