During their annual public policy conference this week, the National Potato Council heard from Robert Guenther, senior vice president of public policy for United Fresh. Robert addressed the outlook for food safety initiatives in the 111th Congress, emphasizing the need for both recognition and cooperation.

"In our industry, food safety simply cannot be ignored," Guenther said. "We must have a unified voice before our elected leaders and Administration officials. We're all in this together, as food safety impacts the entire produce industry from farms to retailers," he continued. "Our number one priority must be to maintain and build consumer confidence in our product. Consumers must be assured that, as they enter a retail store, farmers market, or local roadside stand, the produce they are buying for their family is safe."

For more on United Fresh’s food safety efforts, log on to www.unitedfresh.org.