Poultry producer Foster Farms honored on 75th anniversary

Poultry producer Foster Farms celebrated its 75^th anniversary on June 16 while receiving special recognition from poultry industry leaders and government dignitaries. Held at the historic home of Foster Farms founders Max and Verda Foster, the event commemorated Foster Farms’ contributions to the poultry industry, consumers and to California’s Central Valley community.
California Poultry Federation President Bill Mattos commented: "Foster Farms brings a special kind of leadership to the poultry industry not only in California but across the nation. The company has been instrumental in pursuing initiatives that benefit consumers everywhere. They have helped to bring better definition to common labeling terms, such as ‘fresh’ and ‘natural.’ In 2009, they led a major campaign that effectively ended "plumping" - the practice of adding saltwater to fresh poultry - in California. They are also the first major producer in the country to be certified by American Humane Association."
Mattos went on to say "Foster Farms has stepped up to a leadership position in food safety. They have invested more than $75 million and developed a comprehensive farm-to-package program that attacks Salmonella at almost every possible point. ... Having worked with Foster Farms for more than two decades, I know they are the kind of company that is going to share their learnings with the rest of the industry, to create a safer food supply, even in the many areas where their products are not sold."
Earlier in the day, Mattos hosted a brief ceremony that included resolutions honoring Foster Farms, presented by Congressmen Jim Costa and David Valadao and signed by other federal, state and local officials.
U.S. Sen. Dianne Feinstein, D-Calif., issued a video message congratulating Foster Farms on its 75th anniversary. Feinstein stated: "Whether it's removing unhealthy additives from poultry, collaborating with the USDA or pioneering the idea of locally grown, Foster Farms prioritizes consumers. I have a willing and cooperative partner in Foster Farms."