The U.S. Farmers and Ranchers Alliance (USFRA), a consumer-focused group that aims to lead national conversations about how food is grown and raised, has reached a membership of more than 80 organizations with the addition of nine new affiliates, including IDFA. USFRA’s goal is to get all facets of agriculture working together to enhance consumer confidence and trust in today’s food production.
USFRA brings experts to the table for candid dialogue around some of the most contentious issues in agriculture. These conversations take place through several of USFRA’s program, including The Food Dialogues, which IDFA and USFRA recently hosted at Dairy Forum. The topic of the dialogue was “Animal Care and Consumers’ Emerging Expectations,” and the panel included Mike Reidy, senior vice president of corporate affairs for Leprino Foods Company, and Chuck Ahlem, co-owner of Hilmar Jerseys, the 2015 Innovative Dairy Farmer of the Year.
“This was a perfect avenue to expand communication between consumers and our members about why animal welfare is so important in all elements of the dairy industry,” said Connie Tipton, IDFA president and CEO. “Our partnership with USFRA allowed us to explore how U.S. livestock is raised and food is processed against growing consumer perceptions that often conflict with actual animal care and production practices.”
For more information about USFRA or The Food Dialogues, visit www.FoodDialogues.com.