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Sheep Safety and Quality Assurance Program (SSQA)

Animal Safety and Quality Assurance Programs are national programs that provide guidelines and strategies for producers to promote animal quality and safety and ensure safe food for human consumption.

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Updated:

April 20, 2023

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The Sheep Safety and Quality Assurance (SSQA) program, developed by the American Sheep Industry Association in conjunction with Colorado State University, works to ensure maximum consumer confidence in products generated by the U.S. sheep industry. SSQA utilizes research and education to improve management during the production of safe and high-quality sheep products.

The program, which applies quality principles to the raising of sheep, involves education, design, and outside verification. Producers are first trained in the classroom on quality concepts, such as specifications, process mapping and standard operating procedures. Then they develop on-site mission statements, flowcharts, and inspection plans.

Trainers located across the United States are available to teach the concepts of SSQA.

The final phase of the program arranges for a certified reviewer to carry out an on-the-farm evaluation attesting to the execution of the SSQA requirements in the day-to-day operations.