Danone, Paris, France, and Mérieux NutriSciences, Chicago, IL, have entered into a worldwide food safety partnership covering strategic fields for both companies. The partnership will run for an indefinite period.
 
Food safety in the 21st century demands impeccable risk assessment and control throughout the product lifecycle, from design to consumption, and is one of the foundations of Danone’s mission to bring health through food to as many people as possible. In order to meet and set the highest standards in every region where it operates, the company already deploys an extensive system of governance, including rigorous sourcing and manufacturing procedures, scientific tests on ingredients and finished products, and the consultation and support of international experts.
 
With almost 50 years of experience in food safety and quality, an extensive global footprint of 80 laboratories in 20 countries, and a leadership position in its expertise areas, Mérieux NutriSciences is well positioned to meet the evolving needs of Danone. Mérieux NutriSciences has been providing support to Danone for decades.
 
Under the terms of this new and extended collaboration, Mérieux NutriSciences becomes Danone’s privileged partner for routine food safety testing worldwide. In addition, its research and food safety expert teams will provide expert support and services to better anticipate and manage specific or unexpected food safety situations. Mérieux NutriSciences’ state-of-the-art food safety and quality data management solution is also being adapted to meet Danone’s exceptionally demanding requirements. This tool’s enhanced web-based effectiveness will make an important contribution as Danone strengthens its food safety capabilities further.
 
Emmanuel Faber, chief executive officer of Danone, said, “Our consumers rely on us to tolerate no compromise whatsoever when it comes to food safety, and we strive to bring the very highest level of scientific and management expertise to bear at all times. At Danone, we already have world-class in-house expertise and management systems. But in such fast-changing fields, we are also keen to benefit from strong partnerships with top external experts wherever we operate. Which is why we are delighted to sign this agreement with Mérieux NutriSciences.”
 
Philippe Sans, chief executive officer of Mérieux NutriSciences, commented, “Mérieux NutriSciences is dedicated to supporting food companies in protecting consumers’ health, meeting the most advanced requirements expected by international food manufacturers and retailers. We are very proud that our expertise is recognized by a company like Danone that is looking for the best possible food safety expertise and support on a global basis.”