IFAC and IDF sign Memorandum of Understanding

IFAC and IDF sign Memorandum of Understanding

Washington DC, and Brussels, October 17, 2016 — The International Food Additives Council (IFAC) and the International Dairy Federation (IDF) signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to promote the global harmonization of food additives and food ingredients for milk and milk products.

Specifically, IFAC and IDF have agreed to cooperate in submitting relevant science-based information and positions to intergovernmental organizations such as Codex Alimentarius. In addition, the organizations will exchange relevant information and collaborate in aligning communication efforts relating to food additives and ingredients affecting the dairy sector. Providing technical assistance regarding global specifications as well as the interpretation and implementation of regulations is also within the scope of the agreement.

“The dairy industry is very important to IFAC members,” said Robert Rankin, Executive Director of IFAC. “Many dairy products contain ingredients produced by IFAC member companies, so this partnership with IDF will help enhance our visibility within the dairy industry and facilitate alignment on key issues facing our industries, organizations and ultimately, consumers.”

“It is critical for the dairy sector to be proactively involved in the setting of international standards given the impact on safeguarding consumer health and safety, protecting the environment, facilitating the global trade of milk and milk products and supporting sustainable economic growth” said Dr. Nico van Belzen, Director General of IDF. “IDF’s strategy includes an objective to develop collaborations with relevant organisations to create synergies and increase effectiveness in international harmonization of standards affecting the dairy sector. The collaboration with IFAC is a close fit with this strategy.”

IFAC logo

About IFAC

The International Food Additives Council is a global association representing manufacturers of food ingredients. Founded in 1980, IFAC strives to promote science-based regulation and the global harmonization of food ingredient standards and specifications. For more information about IFAC visit www.foodadditives.org

IDF-logo

About IDF

The International Dairy Federation provides science-based information to its National Committees as well as to international organizations, governments and legislators. IDF places great emphasis and importance on ensuring that the work conducted by its Standing Committees and Task Forces is of the highest scientific quality and integrity and is relevant and applicable to the entire dairy sector and industry worldwide. For more information, visit www.fil-idf.org.

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IFAC CONTACT:

Randy Spoon

+1 678 303 3017

rspoon@kellencompany.com

 

IDF CONTACT:

Apolina Fos

+32 2 325 67 40

afos@fil-idf.org