The North American Meat Institute (NAMI) presented Alfred Almanza, deputy under secretary for food safety at the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), with the prestigious Richard E. Lyng Award in recognition of his support for and commitment to the U.S. meat and poultry industry. Meat Institute Board Chairman Brian Coelho, Central Valley Meat Co., presented the award, which honors individuals who have truly distinguished themselves for their public service, to Almanza during a reception on September 27 at the Meat Institute’s Annual Meeting and Outlook Conference in Washington, D.C.
“In his role as USDA’s Deputy Under Secretary for Food Safety, Almanza has been a tremendous advocate, supporter and chief regulator for the U.S. meat and poultry industry,” said Coelho during the award presentation. “His understanding of the complexities of the meat and poultry industry has enabled him to provide strong leadership and guidance, which has resulted in a positive relationship between government and industry to the benefit of consumers.”