RMIF funding boost

A CASH BOOST of £1.5m over three years will enable the Red Meat Industry Forum launch new training projects for meat businesses.

Half of the money comes in the form of a grant from DEFRA, and the bulk of it will be used to encourage the industry to cash in on stricter hygiene rules.

“HACCP regulations are not all about meeting standards,” said Martin Grantley-Smith, general manager of RMIF.

“If you invest in techniques that raise hygiene standards, it is worth thinking perhaps investing a little more and going higher could add value, for instance, by extending a product’s shelf life.

“Given that you have to use the regulations, which are part of EU law, you have to work out how to capitalise on them.

“Our industry traditionally sees hygiene regulations as a cost, which they are, but they also present a commercial opportunity.”

Another part of the funding will go to set up and promote training for workers, and the Forum is hoping to encourage regional training centres to emerge.

It is in talks with the large abattoirs to develop and market on-site training centres to boost skills among the smaller operators.

“The money will not be spent directly on training people, but on promoting the benefits of training staff. We are trying to make our industry more competitive,” said Mr Grantley-Smith.

RMIF will also step up courses to train livestock hauliers in animal welfare and meat quality, and publish a guide to the industry for new entrants.

Peter Barr, RMIF chairman, said: “The roll-out of these practical projects, which will be done in close conjunction with the Meat Training Council and trade associations, has the potential to bring huge business benefits for participants of all sizes.”