The American Veal Association (AVA) has taken a significant step forward by introducing its recently approved Ethical Commitments, building upon its initial Statement of Principles introduced back in 2010. This evolved set of Ethical Commitments underscores the AVA’s steadfast dedication to key domains such as food safety, animal welfare, environmental stewardship, as well as labor and human rights. A notable addition is the incorporation of indicators and targets to ensure concrete actions are undertaken.
AVA President Sonia Arnold, Ph.D., expressed the association’s enthusiasm about this milestone, stating, “The launch of these commitments signifies our resolute commitment to the well-being of animals, people, and the natural resources entrusted to our care. These Ethical Commitments exemplify our unwavering commitment to producing veal in a manner that aligns with the highest standards of sustainability and ethics, both today and in the future.”
Central to the AVA’s approach is the provision of guidelines for veal farm partners and employees, encompassing various core principles. Each principle is accompanied by a series of specific target dates and stages that delineate the roadmap to achieving these objectives.
Arnold underlined, “We have devised a system to verify our progress through diverse avenues, including audits, validation from licensed veterinarians, and reporting to the North American Meat Institute’s Protein Pact. Furthermore, we are pleased to announce the initiation of the inaugural Life Cycle Assessment study focusing on U.S. milk-fed veal. This study aims to quantify the environmental footprint of U.S. veal farm production.”
She continued, “The heritage of the veal industry is deeply intertwined with resourcefulness and sustainability. The utilization of Holstein bull calves from dairy farms and the repurposing of excess whey and skim milk powder from cheese and butter manufacturers exemplify this commitment to resource optimization. Such practices not only curb food wastage but also contribute to the enrichment of rural communities and provide a valuable source of nutrition for consumers.”
The newly introduced Ethical Commitments are rooted in five fundamental areas:
Animal Welfare – Pioneering Quality Care at Every Lifecycle Stage
AVA members pledge to prioritize the welfare of the animals they rear. The core of this principle rests on the Veal Quality Assurance (VQA) program, consistently updated every five years and validated by accredited veterinarians on farms. This program, supported by the National Beef Checkoff, guides members in implementing best management practices to exceed animal welfare standards at all veal production stages.
Environment – Safeguarding Our Precious Natural Resources
The AVA commits to an ongoing enhancement of management practices encompassing aspects like manure, water, and food processing residuals.
An integral component of the Environment section is the initiation of a Life Cycle Analysis (LCA) aiming to quantify the environmental impact of U.S. veal farm production and devise strategies for mitigation and reduction.
For this crucial endeavor, the AVA has enlisted Sustainable Environmental Consultants (SEC) to execute the LCA. This comprehensive analysis will adopt a cradle-to-farm gate approach, ensuring a comprehensive assessment of greenhouse gas emissions associated with milk-fed veal production. Completion of the veal LCA assessment is projected for 2024.
Food Safety – Elevating Safety and Quality as Our Prime Responsibility
The AVA membership commits to offering reliable, quality food products that inspire confidence. Employing established technologies, robust biosecurity practices, third-party audits, and rigorous employee training, the association excels in ensuring food safety. Furthermore, a dedication to continuous improvement and the adoption of measures that fortify food safety are fundamental to this commitment. The aim of tracing U.S.-raised veal from farm to the end product package by 2024 highlights the significance of traceability within the industry.
Health & Wellness – Spotlighting Veal’s Contribution to a Healthful Diet
AVA members remain devoted to providing scientifically accurate information regarding the nutritional value of veal and its role in a balanced diet. Moreover, the AVA commits to serving underserved communities through food donations, fostering health and wellness within local neighborhoods and across the nation.
Labor & Human Rights – Uplifting Quality of Life for Individuals and Communities
As a sector predominantly composed of family-owned businesses, the veal industry aligns with rigorous regulations applicable at every stage of veal production. The AVA underscores its commitment to promoting a secure and healthy work environment, bolstering community engagement through local volunteerism, supporting workforce diversity, and providing training and growth opportunities for both the workforce and veal farmers.
The introduction of these comprehensive Ethical Commitments solidifies the AVA’s dedication to a sustainable and ethical future for the veal industry, resonating with its core values of responsibility and progress.