Great Britain’s Busiest Port Health Authority Shares Latest On Work To Protect The Country’s Food Chain At Event To Mark World Food Day 2025
Ashford Port Health joined Dover-based Gerlach Customs Services UK Ltd, one of Europe’s leading providers of customs services, to showcase its vital work in protecting Great Britain’s food chain at an event to mark World Food Day 2025.
World Food Day takes place each October to promote awareness of hunger and action for the future of food, people and the planet. Now in its 80th year, it was originally set up to commemorate the founding of the United Nations Food and Agricultural Organisation in 1945.
Throughout October, events and activities take place around the world offering opportunities to learn, engage, and be part of the global movement for food security and sustainability.
Liam Flannery, Port Health Manager and Gill McIver, Business Support Manager at Ashford Port Health Authority were invited to speak at the offices of Gerlach in Dover to mark World Food Day itself which takes place annually on 16th October. It provided an opportunity to explain the impact that port health officials and vets make year-round, 24/7 at the Inland Border Facility at Sevington, Ashford.
Anthony Baldock, Director for Health and Wellbeing at Ashford Borough Council, said: “People may not realise the connection between the work at the UK’s busiest port health facility and World Food Day, but the reality is that our team play a vital role in ensuring a sustainable, prosperous and food-secure future.
“Our port health officers and vets are on the front line in the fight against the spread of invasive species such as malaria carrying mosquitos and animal borne diseases that, in many cases, are the consequence of climate change. Their vigilance and the thousands of checks carried out each year at Sevington are vital to protecting the UK’s food chain.”
Kane Mumford, Head of Customs UK DGFF & Gerlach Customs
“Every year, Gerlach Customs UK proudly celebrates World Food Day by bringing together colleagues across our branches to share dishes which represent their unique cultural background. We have tasted food from as far as Asia, through to the Americas, and local delicacies. This cherished tradition not only showcases the diversity within our teams but also serves as a reminder of the vital role our team plays in global food logistics.”
Heath Smith, Head of UK Operations, Gerlach Customs Services UK Ltd
“Customs clearance is a critical part of the supply chain, ensuring the safe and timely import of food products, and meeting safety and compliance standards.
“Collaborating with Port Health is vital, as their deep knowledge of public health and food safety regulations allows us to proactively identify and address potential issues before they escalate. This partnership helps us maintain high standards, avoid disruptions, and ensure that food products meet all regulatory requirements from the outset.”
