The Meat Industry Association (MIA) has hit back at criticism of inspection trials run by processing companies.

The trials, which allow processors control over the inspection lines, have come under fire from the Public Service Association, who have warned an international backlash against our meat products could follow.

However, Tim Ritchie from the Meat Industry Association says the MIA has a vested interest in the quality of our exports, and would only support moves to maintain it.

“The food safety aspects will not be compromised at all.

And if you think about it, the companies have built up a reputation over the last 130 years of exporting product from one end of the world to the other and the last thing they’re going to do is compromise that.”

Tim Ritchie says while the trials so far have been going well, a decision will only be made after a review process anyway.