Food Safety & Quality Assurance

Livestock production is extremely important to Missouri’s economy. To maintain viable and prosperous livestock markets, consumers must have confidence in their purchases, which is why the Division of Animal Health has identified Food Safety and Livestock Quality Assurance as a primary goal.

Producing and delivering wholesome food, and ensuring food safety is the responsibility of every livestock producer. The Missouri Department of Agriculture’s Division of Animal Health provides educational training and information on food safety and quality assurance for livestock producers, small meat processors, veterinarians, markets, livestock transporters and schools. This training helps the livestock industry develop systems that will ensure that safe products go to the meat processors. The information covers basic issues in using, documenting and withdrawing pharmaceuticals; the effects of stress and disease on meat quality and food-borne pathogen levels; and how livestock handling affects meat quality and pathogen levels.

Quality defects detract from the value of livestock and their products. Many quality defects are associated with mismanagement, genetic non-conformance, transportation and handling. Reducing these quality defects will produce more consistent meat products for the consumer. The Division of Animal Health also provides speakers for meetings, as well as contacts at educational institutions and animal agriculture organizations that can provide additional information on quality assurance issues.

For further information or to schedule a presentation, contact the Division of Animal Health at (573) 522-1242 or e-mail Linda.Stokes@mda.mo.gov.