With increasing globalization, farmers, producers and marketers must be able to assure customers and consumers worldwide that plant and animal products meet the highest health and safety standards. The Americas Northern Region A Food Safety fact sheet is available for download under Publications . Programs and activities focus on four strategic areas that address food safety issues from farm to table. Modernizing Agricultural Health and Food Safety Systems - The new dynamics of international agricultural trade are causing the countries of the hemisphere to rethink their food safety and agricultural health policies. IICA is working to help member countries meet their new obligations through modernization of national agricultural health systems.
Leadership is a key element in the development of a comprehensive food safety policy.
IICA works closely with the countries as they update their SPS measures and modernize their food safety systems to protect consumers and facilitate trade. IICA's participation in the WTO Committee on Sanitary and Phytosanitary Measures enables it to enhance country support . Collaborative actions focus on updating SPS measures to meet international requirements, disseminating current information, organizing workshops and training activities. Early Warning - IICA's hemispheric network allows it to quickly identify emerging food safety issues and issue alert bulletins as needed. A small emergency and emerging issues fund allows countries to proactively address diseases and pests that may threaten agricultural health and food safety.