Food Safety

The most important challenge facing the produce industry today is the safety of the world's produce supply, followed by the need to grow consumer confidence in the industry.

On behalf of our members, PMA A-NZ is taking an active role in enhancing the safety and security of produce across the Australia-New Zealand region. But it doesn't stop there. Globally, the Produce Marketing Association is enhancing the safety and security of the world's produce and explaining the "why" and "how" of food safety to businesses and consumers by translating complex concepts or technologies into real-world solutions.

PMA A-NZ Head of Food Safety & Technology, Richard Bennett

With over two decades of experience championing the improved understanding and adoption of food safety and quality management in the fresh produce sector, our Head of Food Safety & Technology, Richard Bennett is our in-house expert on all areas of food safety, traceability and technology. He works closely with the University of Sydney's Faculty of Agriculture and Environment, and industry stakeholders at the Fresh Produce Safety Centre for Australia and New Zealand.

Richard Bennett PMA A-ANZ Head of Food Safety
and Technology

Prior to commencing his role with PMA A-NZ, Richard was the Product Integrity Manager for Horticulture Australia (HAL), a role which revolved around protecting consumer and supply chain confidence in the integrity of fresh and processed horticultural food products. He worked closely with HAL members – 43 peak industry bodies – on quality assurance, food safety, environmental management, product standards and specifications, product identification and traceability, business continuity, compliance issues and crisis management. He also managed a portfolio of product integrity research and development projects from initial assessment through to contracting, milestone reporting and final reporting.

Richard has had a full career working in numerous aspects of horticulture including in the nursery, seed and fruit processing industries, as an industry development officer, trainer, agronomist and executive officer for a number of fruit grower associations, and providing technical support to the marketing team at the Australian Horticultural Corporation. He has qualifications in orchard management, applied science, agribusiness and food safety.

Ask Richard
Richard is regarded as a go-to person on quality assurance, food safety, environmental management, product standards and specifications, product identification and traceability, business continuity, compliance issues and crisis management. Contact.

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