Buy Only One Week’s Supply, ABA Recommends

American Bakers Association (ABA) has announced that it is working with all levels of government, in partnership with over 60 F&B groups, to ensure consumers the American food supply is safe and readily available during the unprecedented events and uncertainty caused by the coronavirus crisis. 

“The US food supply remains among the safest in the world. Existing regulations, such as the Food Safety Modernization Act (FSMA) and Federal Meat and Poultry Act guide food companies and food and agriculture infrastructure, which are critical during regular “ordinary business” and during times of uncertainty,” said Robb MacKie, president and CEO of the American Bakers Association. 

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) does not consider COVID-19 to be a foodborne illness. Even so, as a preventative measure, many food companies are increasing the levels of sanitation and ordinary food safety testing beyond what is required by law or any regulatory guideline during this pandemic.

“Recent empty shelves are a result of ‘pantry stocking and preparedness’ and it is advisable to prepare for a week of food supplies, versus a month. Despite the surge and because of the strength of the United States’ food system, the supply chain remains solid and transportation is moving food to consumers as quickly and safely as possible,” said MacKie.  

The food and agriculture sector has long been designated as a critical infrastructure sector that provides the essential services that underpin American society.

ABA Shares #BakingStrong Tag to Honor Bakery Industry Workers

“The unsung heroes who deserve to be celebrated are the approximately 45.5 million people working throughout the food and beverage industry. They are working tirelessly and safely, today and always, to feed the country and the world. We cannot thank them enough,” added MacKie. 

To recognize the efforts of the food and beverage industry, ABA and the Food and Beverage Issue Alliance (FBIA), will use a shared hashtag and invite all groups and companies in the food sector to do the same – to honor them: #FeedingUS. 

As a special way to recognize the nearly 800,000 skilled men and women working in the baking industry, ABA encourages using the shared hashtag #BakingStrong.  

Read more about how the coronavirus crisis is affecting the industry here: Keeping Food Safe And Plenty During Coronavirus Pandemic