Chew on This: Episode 5 – Animal Illnesses and the Food Industry: Are We Ready for the Next Outbreak?
16th December 2025
What happens when an animal disease outbreak threatens the food chain? In this episode, we explore the critical role manufacturers play in responding to animal illnesses, from avian flu to African swine fever, and the need for cross-sector collaboration between agriculture, food production, and government.
Host Emily Hickman (Group Technical Services Manager, Oscar Mayer) is joined by:
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Charles Vines, Protein SME, Oscar Mayer
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Joseph Keating, Senior Agriculture & Fisheries Manager, Co-op
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Philip Robinson, Deputy Head, Harper & Keele Veterinary School
Together, they unpack the challenges of traceability, early detection, and crisis communication. Are we truly prepared for what’s coming next, and is our current system fit for purpose?

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