Smithfield Foods, Inc., Smithfield, Va., published the third installment of its 2016 Sustainability Report, providing in-depth information about its continued commitment to produce safe, high-quality products. The Food Safety & Quality section highlights Smithfield’s leadership in product innovation achievements and a focus on its company-wide food safety culture.

“People are concerned today with food safety and with food ingredients,” says Stewart Leeth, vice president of regulatory affairs and chief sustainability officer. “Across the company, whether at our farms or our plants, food safety is non-negotiable. Together, we have established a culture where safety and quality is every employee’s responsibility and where transparency in our practices is paramount.”

The report provides extensive information about Smithfield’s leading food safety and quality initiatives and certifications, such as:

·       Maintaining zero United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) recalls of any food product for the third consecutive year (2014-2016).

·       Expanding its online ingredient glossary, what is said to be a first for the meat industry that includes more than 100 definitions of ingredients that can be found in Smithfield products.

·       Receiving an American Association for Laboratory Accreditation (A2LA) certification at its Denison, Iowa, microbiology facility — one of only 283 organizations accredited nationwide.

·       Investing approximately $20 million on capital improvements and projects, including upgrading refrigeration systems, enhancing cleaning and sanitation systems and installing new environmental testing equipment.

·       Retaining its 100% Global Food Safety Initiative (GFSI) certification at all applicable Smithfield Foods facilities for the fifth year in a row.

·       Innovating with the launch of Smithfield’s antibiotic-free line of pork products under its Pure Farms brand, along with many other product innovations.

“By maintaining the highest food safety and quality standards, Smithfield continues to build trust with consumers and customers and produces some of the safest food in the world,” says Kenneth Sullivan, president and CEO. “In addition, our increased focus on product innovation will accelerate Smithfield’s growth in the future.”

This follows the release of Smithfield Foods’ second installment, which focused on its many environmental projects.