Message from USDA
The USDA-Agricultural Research Service (ARS) and other government agencies have greatly benefited from the cooperative research alliance with the National Alliance for Food Safety and Security (NAFSS). The NAFSS with its diversity of capabilities and expertise has provided invaluable contributions to food safety through its holistic and proactive approach, combined with technology transfer, education and outreach efforts. The participation of numerous academic scientists with differing views and abilities has allowed critical research to be conducted that could not otherwise have been addressed.
The direction that food safety is being driven over the next 5-10 years is actively being discussed at various levels. ARS has been proactive in this endeavor, attending various national and international decision-making workshops; and seeking international collaborations and new sources of funding to address the many global food safety challenges. The NAFSS where possible, has also been an invited participant in these initiatives, specifically attending meetings in the USA, Europe and China.
The ARS greatly values its relationship with the NAFSS since it provides a mechanism for creating partnerships among universities and the federal government. It is the ARS hope that this relationship continues. The loss of NAFSS funding for the research program is a challenge that can only be met through concerted efforts by all parties.
