In the past several years, both the U.S. and Europe have experienced increases in the number of food recalls.  According to the Food Allergy Research and Resource Program (FARRP), food allergen recalls of USDA and FDA regulated products are on the rise.  Two recent incidences, in 2015 and 2016, represent the nature and magnitude of possible allergen contamination of commodity products and their impact across borders.  They, also, bring home the urgency to better understand the practices at primary production that may lead to allergen contamination of ingredients and the need to get ahead of the next allergen recall, locally and internationally.  Lastly, they illustrate the challenges faced by food safety professionals to provide a safe product and the impact to consumer perceptions about food safety.  This session will examine current supply chain operations by leveraging lessons learned from past experiences.  Speakers will provide tangible recommendations and best practices that address allergen management, recalls, and public communications; procurement; and global growing conditions.  At the end of this session, attendees will be able to incorporate learnings into existing food safety and food recall readiness plans to enhance safety and to protect the health of today’s consumer.

Presentations