As families prepare to celebrate the holidays, veal is a great center-of-the-plate option for these special occasions. Especially when it’s American veal, a high-quality, uniquely versatile protein with unmatched tenderness and flavor. Whether people are hosting an event at home or dining out, we want them to focus on the reason for the celebration while having confidence in the quality and safety of their meal.
“Veal holds such a special place in holiday traditions and celebrations, whether you are making an appetizer, planning a main course or dining out,” said Sonia Arnold, American Veal Association (AVA) president. “Veal – it’s flavor, versatility and aroma -- inspires wonderful family traditions for many this time of year.”
As families gather around the table to celebrate, they can do so with confidence when American veal is on the menu. AVA members recognize and embrace our responsibility toward the animals, people and natural resources entrusted to our care and this is highlighted in our Ethical Commitments. Food Safety, one of our key commitments, notes that safe, quality food is our first responsibility. To do this, AVA membership excels in food safety using proven technologies, biosecurity practices, third-party audits and employee training.
As part of our Ethical Commitment to Food Safety, AVA members are committed to:
· Continually review and adopt practices that protect food safety;
· Use animal health products when medically necessary and under the guidance of a licensed veterinarian;
· Prevent food safety and security issues through use of proven technologies and biosecurity practices; and
· Trace U.S.-raised veal from veal farm to product package.
AVA membership has set the following targets and indicators to show our dedication to food safety and will share progress on reaching these goals in the future.
1. All AVA members have verifiable food safety programs in place and achieve successful third-party audits.
2. All AVA members annually review food safety programs to ensure continuous improvement and incorporate new, proven practices when applicable.
3. Antibiotic residues at zero for U.S.-raised milk-fed veal, as reported in the National Residue Program, issued quarterly by USDA Food Safety and Inspection Service.
4. All AVA members follow a written biosecurity plan.
5. Implement traceability of U.S.-raised veal from veal farm to product package by 2024.
“As an industry, we know that families entrust us to prioritize food safety,” Arnold continued. “AVA’s Ethical Commitments are another way we can demonstrate to our customers the dedication of the industry so that families can enjoy delicious veal during the holiday season and year-round.”
Learn more about AVA’s Ethical Commitments and our continued progress on these goals.