BVA welcomes VDC proposals on food industry responsibilities for vets

The British Veterinary Association (BVA) has welcomed the publication of a new report setting out practical ways in which veterinary professionals can better meet the needs of the food industry.

Issued by the Veterinary Development Council (VDC), the report has been compiled to reflect the views of the entire food supply chain, including veterinary surgeons, regulators, government, producers, retailers and the veterinary pharmaceutical industry.

Recommendations include increased business education and a prioritisation of food safety in UK veterinary schools, as well as greater government consideration of animal health and welfare under the Rural Development Regulation.

Carl Padgett, president of the BVA, said: "Vets are highly valued by both farmers and government, but we can always do more and I look forward to taking the VDC's recommendations forward with other stakeholders."

Last month, the organisation marked World Veterinary Day by calling on animal health professionals to give greater consideration to issues pertaining to antimicrobial resistance.