USDA Taps Industry Veteran John Bellinger to Combat New World Screwworm

Bellinger, a co-founder and former CEO of Food Safety Net Services, brings decades of experience in beef production and laboratory testing to the federal role. His work will focus on evaluating detection technologies and response protocols designed to shield warm-blooded animals from the parasitic pest. Certified Group CEO David Morgan highlighted Bellinger’s deep understanding of the meat industry, noting his capacity to navigate the complexities of cattle production and global food safety systems.

In this advisory capacity, Bellinger will collaborate with the USDA to refine the tools necessary for rapid intervention. The move comes as federal agencies prioritize the protection of domestic producers against biological threats to livestock. Bellinger will maintain his position as a board member at Certified Group while supporting the department’s ongoing preparedness initiatives.