RSPCA vets vision inspired Freedom Foods

2 June 2000




RSPCA vets vision inspired Freedom Foods

ALASTAIR Mews was the inspiration behind the introduction of the Freedom Food scheme. As an RSPCA vet he wanted to see farm animal welfare standards improve through welfare-friendly food labelling.

The Freedom Food scheme began in 1994, shortly after he died. However, the RSPCA remains committed to the scheme and in 1998 it held the first Alastair Mews Award for outstanding contribution to animal welfare.

Now in its third year, the award which offers a £2500 bursary is open to entries from three categories:

&#8226 Large producer groups – where the management of the group implemented change or innovation across its whole supplier base.

&#8226 Individual farmers – a single herd or flock, who may or may not be part of a group, that has introduced some positive change to benefit welfare on the unit.

&#8226 Handling/transportation post-farm – those responsible for transporting and slaughtering animals.

Each category winner will receive a range of material to promote their achievement including a special farm gate sign, and will be able to use the award logo on letterheads. They will also be entered for the main Alastair Mews Award, the winner of which will receive a £2500 bursary to be used for training or research to further improve farm animal welfare.

Entry is open to all 4000 Freedom Food scheme members.

Application forms are available from Freedom Food (01403-223361).


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