Flavor Industry Plays Critical Role During COVID 19 Crisis as an Essential Industry

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

May 1, 2020 -- In the midst of the global crisis triggered by COVID-19, the flavor industry has played a critical role as an essential sector in the food industry to keep food on our grocery shelves and by giving back to local communities.

Flavor companies are included in the Department of Homeland Security (DHS)/Cybersecurity & Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) definition of the critical food infrastructure sector, which includes food manufacturer employees and their supplier employees. The Flavor and Extract Manufacturers Association of the United States (FEMA), whose member companies make more than 95% of the flavors added to foods in the U.S., has encouraged federal, state and local officials to align on DHS/CISA guidelines that allow these companies to continue operations so that the food supply chain remains unbroken. FEMA has also shared information on maintaining safe workplaces with its members, including recommendations set forth by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the Occupational Safety and Health Administration.

“As a critical sector of the overall food industry, the U.S. flavor industry has made it possible for consumers to continue to have access to food throughout this pandemic. FEMA commends these companies and their employees for their commitment to maintaining the food supply,” said FEMA Executive Director Jerry Bowman. 

But producing flavors is not the only vital service these companies have provided. From the beginning, they have stepped up to meet challenges presented in the pandemic, from donating supplies and resources to healthcare workers to supporting local community efforts.

“FEMA member companies and their employees are giving back in the communities where they live and work to make a difference, and the flavor industry will continue to meet consumer demands when they need it most in the upcoming months,” according to Mr. Bowman.

Over the coming weeks, you can read more about the inspiring work companies across the flavor industry are accomplishing by following FEMA on LinkedIn.

About FEMA

The Flavor and Extract Manufacturers Association of the United States (FEMA) is composed of flavor manufacturers, flavor users, flavor ingredient suppliers, and others with an interest in the U.S. flavor industry. Founded in 1909, it is the national association of the U.S. flavor industry. FEMA is committed to assuring a substantial supply of safe flavoring substances. More information about FEMA is available at www.femaflavor.org.

Contact:

Meredith Huddle | 202-293-5800 | [email protected]