Global FMCG leader praises UAE's commitment to developing food safety standards

John Carter, Director of Corporate Quality, Kraft foods Ceema region, said that in the event of product recalls, there must first be an effective system to trace those products. "Effective traceability programmes must apply to all finished products and components, including ingredients and packaging materials. Annual assessments must be carried out with the goal of 100% traceability within 24 hours."

"Safe food is the consumers' prerogative. As global leaders in the food industry, it is vital that we practice transparency and share our best practice methods and insights, so that other smaller players in the industry can learn from our cumulative strengths, experiences and expertise. Food safety control systems must be able to adapt to the 21st century in order to be effective in managing crises. In fact if managed properly, such incidents can have positive outcomes because NGO's and the public will appreciate the honesty and professionalism undertaken to protect consumers' right to safe food," he added.

"We at Kraft Foods are very impressed with the level of in depth knowledge and expertise shared at the Dubai International Food Safety Conference. In organizing this conference, the Dubai Municipality has created a paradigm shift to fuel an on going and dynamic dialogue amongst the industry players across the food chain whether small or large. Kraft Foods will continue to support the Dubai Municipality's efforts towards food safety development in this region," John Carter concluded.