Retailer applies produce criteria
EUREPGAP, which started in 1997 as an initiative of retailers belonging to the Euro-Retailer Produce Working Group, has now evolved into a partnership of agricultural producers and their retail customers.
The aim is to develop accepted standards and procedures for the global certification of Good Agricultural Practices (GAP).
Bord Glas is currently in the process of being accredited to EUREPGAP, and intends to be affiliated by the end of the year. Members include key sectors of the supply chain, including farmers and producers.
EUREPGAP promotes a common set of criteria and standards that growers and farmers have to maintain.
MSVC group trading director James Wilson said producers and retailers need to be aware of the wider dimension of food safety issues. Consumers have a right to know how food is produced and that it is both safe and sustainable.
A dedicated Food Safety and Quality Assurance division operates in MSVC, employing a team of 30 people in food traceability, supplier auditing, and monitoring food quality along the food chain.
Headed by Eamon Howell, the division is charged with implementing best practice at industry and retail level, as well as managing consumer programmes to reassure shoppers on food safety and quality.
The company budgets €6 million annually on initiatives to enhance food safety and quality assurance in SuperValu and Centra, the independent retail groups serviced by Musgrave SuperValu-Centra.
MSVC will sell €875 million in fresh foods, sourced in Ireland, this year. This represents over 15% growth in fresh food sales for the group, which has a combined grocery market share of 24%.
