A self-discipline code for the poultry industry
From Italy to Europe
by Pietro Greppi
Introduction
This document is addressed to consumers looking for clear and reliable information about the poultry sector, but especially to the poultry industry as a whole.
We are not asking for any action from the public, except to follow the evolution of this initiative through the blogs
https://www.NutriamocidiBuonsenso.it (abbreviated as N.D.B.S.)
and
https://www.MoreAboutChicken.com (abbreviated as M.A.C.).
Our goal is to actively engage public opinion and the poultry sector in building a more transparent and conscious system, leading to widespread adherence and participation in this innovation proposal.
The reputation of the poultry sector
In recent years, the poultry sector has faced increasing criticism, which has impacted its reputation and economic stability. This sector consists of people who work to provide healthy and accessible food to billions of consumers and cannot afford to underestimate the knowledge gap between the poultry system and the public.
Consumers are, in fact, the primary regulators of the sector: their food choices determine the future of the entire industry. However, the information they receive is often one-sided, filtered through anti-farming associations that ignore the strategic role of the sector in food security.
Criticism, even when based on misinformation or fake news, often stems from real concerns. If the poultry sector continues to ignore them, it risks fostering a dangerous climate of distrust.
A change of perspective: the need for a regulatory body
To effectively respond to criticism and ensure transparency, it is crucial to establish a self-regulation body shared across the entire poultry supply chain. This organization should:
– Collect and manage requests and reports, fostering constructive dialogue between the sector and consumers.
– Conduct checks and verifications to reduce grey areas that breed mistrust.
– Promote a simplified system that consolidates existing certifications, making them more understandable to the public.
– Serve as a reliable and accessible reference point for information on the poultry sector.
The goal is not to increase bureaucracy but to simplify access to clear and transparent information , providing consumers with tools to understand the essential role of the poultry sector in global nutrition.
The MAC Code
A new self-discipline standard for the poultry industry
www.NutriamocidiBuonsenso.it and www.MoreAboutChicken.com promote the creation of a Poultry Industry Self-Regulation Institute, with the aim of defining minimum parameters through a Code of Conduct and Self-Regulation, named MAC.
Characteristics of the MAC Code
– Mandatory for all registered farms, ensuring uniform standards for production and animal welfare.
– Involvement of supply chain companies, including equipment and feed producers.
– Consumer protection, ensuring transparency and responsibility in the sector.
– Regulations on commercial communication, promoting honest and truthful messages.
– Reference center for reports, fostering dialogue between the sector and critics.
– Reputation protection tool, providing structured responses to criticism.
Benefits of the MAC Code
✔ Greater consumer trust, allowing verification of compliance with standards.
✔ Fairer competition between companies, preventing unethical practices.
✔ An institutional space for discussions where the sector and its opponents can engage without distortions.
✔ An effective response to criticism, demonstrating the sector’s commitment to transparency and sustainability.
MAC Code adherence and regulations
The MAC Code will be binding for poultry companies and anyone operating in the sector.
Companies that adhere must comply with the conditions outlined in the Code and accept any sanctions for violations.
The European Union encourages self-regulation systems that govern communication and transparency.
Conclusion
The goal of the MAC Code is to provide the poultry sector with an effective system for improving public perception, ensuring transparency and accountability.
Such an approach can:
- Combat the spread of fake news and misinformation.
- Strengthen the reputation of the poultry sector.
- Establish trust between producers and consumers.
- Facilitate dialogue between the industry and public opinion.
The poultry sector must be a reference point for accessible global nutrition.
To achieve this, we must unite efforts and support the creation of the MAC Code, a concrete step toward a more sustainable, transparent, and open future.
From these blogs, we call on the entire poultry supply chain to commit and participate in establishing a self-discipline code that represents the industry and safeguards its reputation.
For information and contact, use the forms on: https://moreaboutchicken.com/contact/
