IDFA launches #Essential campaign and updates on Covid-19

The International Dairy Foods Association (IDFA) is launching a social media campaign titled #ESSENTIAL in order to take a moment to recognise and honour workers throughout the dairy value chain during these challenging times.

The Association wishes to highlight everyone working throughout the dairy industry to protect essential food security and is encouraging dairy companies to create their own #Essential social media posts focused on celebrating their workers.

In addition, the IDFA continues to track coronavirus developments and its impact on the dairy industry and the US economy. IDFA’s coronavirus resource page, www.idfa.org/coronavirus is available to members and non-members alike.

IDFA has been staying close to federal officials, legislators, business leaders and other trade associations to learn the latest and to advocate on behalf of the US dairy industry.

Here is a list of some of the issues that the IDFA’s advocacy, regulatory and communications functions are currently focused on:

·     The Association is requesting clearer guidance or recommendations from the FDA and CDC on procedures to protect workers and facilities when an employee tests positive for Covid-19.

·     IDFA is working with USDA and the Congress to waive certain requirements under the WIC program, including stringent requirements for fluid milk purchases under the program. The waiver will allow WIC participants to purchase 2% milk.

·     IDFA is also working with USDA, the White House, Feeding America and with Congress, to ensure the necessary systems and resources are in place to continue moving fluid milk to schools for congregant feeding and meals; to expand options for milk and dairy in other federal feeding programs as well as benefits programs such as SNAP and TEFAP; and the Association wants to ensure USDA is working closely with food banks and distribution centres to get adequate supplies of dairy foods to people in need.

·     IDFA is working with the SHIP Coalition and its key Capitol Hill allies to request a temporary federal waiver to laws limiting the weight of trucks using the interstate highway system. This would allow vital goods, including dairy products, to get where they are needed faster and more efficiently, providing prompter relief and contributing to economic recovery.

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Dairy Industries International