A new video produced by AHDB which shows how abattoirs in the UK are taking steps to minimise the spread of Covid-19, has been unveiled.
The two-minute animation, which is in English and Chinese, highlights the range of practices being adopted across the UK to ensure the safe production of red meat, to reassure that the UK is committed to maintaining its world leading standards in food production.
Created with subtitles, the video is to be used to show Chinese officials and importers that UK abattoirs are taking precautionary measures to facilitate ongoing trade. The English version will also be used in other export markets such as the EU and the US.
AHDB international market development Director Dr Phil Hadley said: “The UK has market access for sheep, beef and pig products in over 50 countries and we felt compelled to reassure our export markets of the steps being taken to minimise and risk during these challenging times.
“Health and quality have always been at the centre of UK meat production, and the coronavirus pandemic has resulted in additional measures being put in place to manage the associated risk.
“It is important that we communicate the ongoing safety measures operating in UK abattoirs with industry and consumers both at home and overseas.”
The videos address the issue of social distancing at abattoirs with a series of measures such as screens or barriers, one-way systems and, where practical, staggered entrance and exit times.
It also shows how the UK meat industry has adopted the British government’s ‘test and track’ strategy. Anyone who has symptoms of Covid-19 can get a test, to establish if they have the virus.
The video will be used across a range of AHDB events and platforms, including virtual exhibitions both at home and overseas during lockdown.