Food Security

Our nation’s food supply is defined by quality. It is rare to consider the safety of the food we eat or the products we drink. This is a luxury that we take for granted. However, the security of our food supply is one of the most critical issues facing our society today. No other topic affects the entire population, or has the potential for the emotional and societal upheaval, as does the current threat to our food supply.

The security of our food supply must be assured. This is a daunting task because of the wide variety of foodstuffs that our society relies upon and the far flung nature of the production stream. From field-growing basic ingredients to the processing plant producing products for the grocery store shelf, food processing practices are just now being reviewed from a security perspective. 

The fundamental step in formulating a strategic framework for food security is risk analysis. What are the threats and vulnerabilities to specific portions of the food chain? What is the likelihood that any of these vulnerabilities will be exploited? What are the likely consequences of directed acts against your vulnerabilities? What are effective and affordable measures that can be taken to reduce the risk of your operation? 

The answers to these questions are in many ways unique to your specific process and facilities. While security principles are foundational, application is industry specific. We can help in both areas to define and implement cost-effective security programs.

Read Randy Nason’s recent articles:

IP Camera: Features & Capabilities
Eye in the Sky - Closed-Circuit Television (CCTV)
Plant Security - Electronic Entry Control
Agriculture and Food Sector Risk Analysis
Network Video Doesn't Have to Burden IT
Strategic Approach to Food Facility Security
Crisis Management Planning
Ready for Anything?
Communicating in a Crisis

Helpful Links

AIB International Food Defense Resource Center:  http://www.aibfooddefense.org

USDA Food Safety and Inspection Service:  http://www.fsis.usda.gov

Food Security References:  http://www.foodsafety.gov/~fsg/bioterr.html

Customs-Trade Partnership Against Terrorism (C-TPAT): http://www.cbp.gov/xp/cgov/import/commercial_enforcement/ctpat/