The American Bakers Association (ABA), along with two dozen food and beverage trade groups in the Food & Beverage Issue Alliance, signed on to a document addressed to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), all of the United States’ Governors, the National Governors Association, and all State and Territorial Health Officials that creates criteria for sub-prioritizing COVID-19 vaccination among the food supply chain essential workers.
“The facts are clear that there is not enough initial supply for all 23 million food supply chain employees,” said Robb MacKie, President and CEO, ABA. “Key logistical issues must still be addressed, but this industry guidance developed and supported by food producers will help protect our essential employees and we hope, will assist in smooth access to vaccines for our nation’s essential critical infrastructure food workers.”
"Working closely with our food and beverage industry partners throughout this crisis has ensured the nation’s food supply chain remains operational, safe, and plentiful. That work will not stop as we face this next phase of the pandemic,” added MacKie.
A recent Morning Consult/IDFA poll found that more than four in five adults believe agricultural and food production workers (85%) should be made a priority when it comes to being among the first to receive the coronavirus vaccine. The poll also shows seven in ten adults (71%) support companies and employers partnering with public health agencies at local and state levels to aid in the distribution of the coronavirus vaccine to employees.
ABA will continue to be a resource for Members throughout the COVID-19 public health emergency. On January 19, 2021, ABA will host an extremely timely, free informational webinar with Dr. David Acheson, Former FDA Associate Commissioner for Foods and founder and CEO of a global food safety consulting firm, The Acheson Group (TAG). Registration can be found here.
Additionally, ABA has compiled information for members on the COVID-19 vaccine on a new resource page www.AmericanBakers.org/vaccine. The information does not constitute legal advice, as employers should carefully review information on COVID-19 vaccinations in accordance with their own policies and procedures and consult their internal or external counsel.
The baking industry is encouraged to refer to ABA’s COVID-19 Toolkit for constantly updated, industry-relevant information and resources to assist members to respond effectively, and efficiently during the ongoing public health emergency.
Food Supply Chain Vaccine Priority List letter
