Critical issues facing the animal and food industry: a Delphi analysis

Kevan W Lamm; Nekeisha L Randall; Francis L Fluharty

doi:10.1093/tas/txaa213

Critical issues facing the animal and food industry: a Delphi analysis

Transl Anim Sci. 2020 Nov 19;5(1):txaa213. doi: 10.1093/tas/txaa213. eCollection 2021 Jan.

Authors

Kevan W Lamm¹, Nekeisha L Randall², Francis L Fluharty³

Affiliations

¹ Department of Agricultural Leadership, Education and Communication, University of Georgia, Athens, GA.
² Department of Learning, Leadership, and Organization Development, University of Georgia, Athens, GA.
³ Department of Animal and Dairy Science, University of Georgia, Athens, GA.

Abstract

By the year 2050, the world's population is estimated to increase by approximately 2.1 billion people. For the sake of food security and safety, it is vital for the animal and food industry to act now in preparation for future consumption needs. The study at hand explored the most critical issues facing the field, according to industry experts. Using Delphi and constant comparative methods, seven thematic categories emerged that serve as overarching areas for attention: Industry Image and Relationship with the Public, Workforce Development and Pipeline, Economic and Environmental Sustainability, Animal and Human Health/Well-Being, Production and Distribution Efficiency, Government Regulations and Relationship with Legislative Leaders, and Relationship with Higher Education/Researchers. Findings and recommendations on how the industry can move forward in light of future challenges and opportunities are explored.

Keywords: dairy industry; food security; meat production; population.