February 21, 2013
Brazil to launch seal of quality for fat and animal meal
The Brazilian Association of Animal Rendering (ABRA) and the Brazilian Service of Support for Micro and Small Enterprises (SEBRAE), launched a programme aimed at improving the quality of animal rendering industries, where participants who implement the programme will receive a Seal of Quality.
The purpose of the seal is to increase the reliability of fats and animal meal, ensuring that the company processes based on the quality standards required by law.
Vinicius Marques, executive secretary of ABRA, says the seal is a major breakthrough for the Brazilian animal rendering industry. "The Seal of Quality ensures safety to the consumer and adds value to producers. The seal is also a means to open the borders to trade with other countries, hence expanding international trade in our products. "
The programme for obtaining the seal comprises of two levels. The first will assess the microbiological safety of the manufacturing system to ensure that participating companies perform all preventive measures to produce a safe product under the microbiological point of view. A survey will be done to assess the current status of the plant, and a report must be prepared to obtain the seal.
The second level will include an evaluation of the safety/physical chemistry that will ensure the absence of pesticides, heavy metals and other contaminants such as glass, plastics, among others.
Practical manuals will be made available focusing on the entire production chain, which will facilitate the implementation of legislation.