Center for Food Integrity official to present research on consumer trust

Terry Fleck  Download Photo

WEST LAFAYETTE, Ind. - The executive director of the Center for Food Integrity will present consumer research findings on public skepticism of the food system and steps the industry can take to rebuild consumers' trust.

Terry Fleck will speak at 4 p.m. March 12 in Pfendler Hall's Deans Auditorium on Purdue University's main campus. The event is open to the public.

The focus of his presentation will be CFI's 2013 Consumer Trust in the Food System research survey, which provides a roadmap to seven steps for building the public's trust through transparency.

"The model provides a clear path to effectively address growing skepticism about today's food," Fleck said. "Consumers have been asking for more transparency, but it has not been well defined. This research defines transparency and provides direction. Effectively implementing this new model will help companies and organizations build trust with their stakeholders and consumers."

Fleck's appearance is sponsored by Purdue Agriculture's Issues Engagement Initiative, which includes the new Issues 360 Fellows program that provides educational experiences for students to help them become more skilled in engaging in issues without advocating or positioning one side against another.

The presentation will benefit students as they learn more about timely and important issues they will face in their careers, said Marcos Fernandez, associate dean and director of academic programs for Purdue Agriculture.

"I find it exciting to have a presenter of the caliber of Terry Fleck and CFI on campus," Fernandez said. "I believe this presentation will provide a unique and valuable educational opportunity for our students, faculty and staff alike."

The not-for-profit Center for Food Integrity, based in Gladstone, Mo., was established in 2007 to build consumer trust and confidence in today's food system. Its members include farmers and ranchers, and representatives of universities, food processors, restaurants, retailers and food companies. Purdue is a member.

Fleck is a graduate of Purdue, which recognized him in 2005 with its Distinguished Animal Science Alumni Award. 

Writer: Keith Robinson, 765-494-2722, robins89@purdue.edu 

Sources: Marcos Fernandez, 765-494-8472, mfernandez@purdue.edu

Terry Fleck, 816-556-3140, terry.fleck@foodintegrity.org

Ag Communications: (765) 494-2722;
Keith Robinson, robins89@purdue.edu
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