Regulators Take Center Stage in Annual Town Hall (Image Credits: Foodsafetynews.com)
Rosemont, Illinois – Food safety professionals can now register for the 2026 Food Safety Summit, a premier event set for May 11–14 at the Donald E. Stephens Convention Center.[1][2]
Regulators Take Center Stage in Annual Town Hall
Top officials from the FDA and USDA will anchor the summit’s marquee discussions, offering direct insights into regulatory priorities. The 15th Annual Town Hall on Thursday, May 14, features Mindy Brashears, Ph.D., Under Secretary for Food Safety at the USDA, and Kyle Diamantas, J.D., Deputy Commissioner for Human Foods at the FDA. They join Steve Mandernach, J.D., Executive Director of the Association of Food and Drug Officials, and Megin Nichols, D.V.M., from the CDC, moderated by Gillian Kelleher.[3][1]
This session promises candid conversations on emerging risks and collaborative strategies. Organizers positioned it as a key forum for addressing current challenges in food protection. Additional FDA experts, including Tim Jackson, Ph.D., Laurie Farmer, and Glenda Lewis, lead sessions on topics like food safety economics, norovirus reduction, and time/temperature controls.[3]
Dynamic Agenda Tackles AI, Pathogens, and Culture
The conference unfolded a comprehensive program shaped by an Educational Advisory Board of industry leaders. Sessions span leadership, hazards, validation, and sector-specific issues, with dozens of interactive workshops. Opening on Tuesday highlighted AI’s role in food safety, led by experts from McDonald’s and Cargill.[1]
Other standout topics included allergen management, pathogen controls in processing environments, and retail sanitation case studies. Wednesday’s keynote by Joan Menke-Schaenzer of Van Drunen Farms emphasized teamwork in a changing landscape. The closing session reviewed 15 years of FSMA implementation.[1]
- AI for Food Safety: Strategy and Impact
- Strengthening Retail Food Safety Against Norovirus
- Digital HACCP and Traceability Under FSMA 204
- Food Safety Culture Through Mentorship and Influence
- Policy on Ingredient Safety and Labeling
Certificate Courses Offer Specialized Training
Attendees sought hands-on expertise through five certificate courses on Monday, with some extending into the week. Offerings covered AI in document writing, food fraud prevention, hazard analysis principles, allergen management, and FSPCA Preventive Controls for Human Food. Instructors hailed from Cornell University, Michigan State, Walmart alumni, and Mississippi State University.[1]
Separate registration applied for these, priced from $650 to $1,675 early bird, often bundling conference access. Such programs equipped participants with practical tools amid evolving threats like antimicrobial resistance and supply chain vulnerabilities.
Expo, Networking Bolster Practical Solutions
Beyond education, the summit included an exhibit hall open Tuesday through Thursday, featuring solutions stages, tech tents, and a podcast theater. Two receptions fostered connections: a welcome event Tuesday evening and a “Gives Back” networking session Wednesday.[2]
Vendors showcased innovations in sanitation, monitoring, and compliance tech. Professionals from retailers, processors, and regulators mingled, turning insights into actionable plans.
| Package | For-Profit Early Bird | Non-Profit Early Bird |
|---|---|---|
| 3-Day | $1,125 | $975 |
| 2-Day | $1,075 | $775 |
| 1-Day | $795 | $525 |
| Exhibit Hall Only | $395 | $25 |
Early bird rates expired March 31; group discounts started at three attendees.[4]
- Secure early registration for cost savings and prime sessions.
- Prioritize the Town Hall for regulator updates.
- Combine courses with expo visits for full impact.
The 2026 Food Safety Summit stood as a vital hub for advancing protections across the supply chain. Professionals left equipped to navigate AI integrations, pathogen battles, and cultural shifts. What sessions intrigue you most? Share in the comments.
