bioMérieux, a world leader in the field of in vitro diagnostics, today announced that it is honoured to receive the 2011 Black Pearl Award given by the International Association of Food Protection (IAFP).
With its most distinguished annual award, IAFP recognises bioMérieux for superior excellence and commitment to food safety and food quality.
The Black Pearl Award is given annually to one company according to the following criteria: contributions to public health and food safety; activities related to food safety education; support of IAFP goals and objectives; commitment to ethical and fair business practices; promotion of food safety through community, consumer, and employee channels; development of products and services related to food safety, and adherence to regulatory requirements.
David Tharp, executive director of IAFP, commented: “The selection committee was very impressed with bioMérieux’s commitment to excellence in food safety, and believed that the company was truly a worthy recipient of this prestigious award.”
“I am pleased to support the 2011 nomination of bioMérieux for the prestigious Black Pearl Award,” stated Dr. Gary Acuff, director of the Center for Food Safety at Texas A&M University.
“Having worked in the field of food microbiology for 30 years now, I have seen my share of new technology introduced, but I believe bioMérieux may have injected more innovation and forward thought into diagnostic examination of food than any other single entity. Their dedication to quality, speed and ease of use in diagnostic microbiology to support food safety needs in the food industry has made the bioMérieux name synonymous with rapid testing and automation.”
“It is a great honor for bioMérieux to have our contribution to food safety and support of the food industry recognized by the Black Pearl Award,” said Jean-Marc Durano, bioMérieux corporate vice president, industrial microbiology. “For 20 years, we have been working closely with our customers to develop novel solutions to ensure the safety and quality of food products. This important award validates our approach and reinforces our commitment.”
About IAFP
IAFP represents a broad range of members with a singular focus – protecting the global food supply. Within the association, you will find educators, government officials, microbiologists, food industry executives and quality control professionals who are involved in all aspects of growing, storing, transporting, processing and preparing all types of foods.
Working together, IAFP members, representing more than 50 countries, help the association achieve its mission through networking, educational programs, journals, career opportunities and numerous other resources.