The Food Industry Deemed Essential and Critical to Infrastructure In COVID19 Response

Mar 19, 2020

ARLINGTON, VA – FMI, The Food Industry Association – representing food retailers, wholesalers and suppliers of our nation’s food and consumer goods – commends the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) for including food and agriculture and transportation and logistics among its essential, critical infrastructure. This allows grocery stores and their supply chain partners to maintain their daily operations to serve customers. FMI President and CEO Leslie Sarasin said:

“Whether it’s during a natural disaster or a national emergency, the food industry does what it does best – cares for customers and communities; managing to rise to the occasion and provide solid customer service when it matters most. The supply chain continues to adapt to meet the new levels of demand, and being deemed an essential workforce allows the industry to restock and replenish products across the country without interruption.

“In the midst of challenges to keep products flowing, the needs of all their customers and partners – including WIC and SNAP shoppers – remain top-of-mind. I am honored to work in this industry that is resilient in answering the challenges arising during this national emergency. I know the food industry is doing its very best to get shoppers food and basic necessities to help offer comfort and nourishment during this uncertain time."

About FMI

As the food industry association, FMI works with and on behalf of the entire industry to advance a safer, healthier and more efficient consumer food supply chain. FMI brings together a wide range of members across the value chain — from retailers that sell to consumers, to producers that supply food and other products, as well as the wide variety of companies providing critical services — to amplify the collective work of the industry. www.FMI.org