Food Safety Matters

In this BONUS episode of Food Safety Matters, representatives from Neogen and AOAC INTERNATIONAL discuss the benefits of having testing methods and kits independently approved and certified. You will learn all about the beginnings of AOAC INTERNATIONAL, how the organization has evolved, and what it means for a company within the food industry to be an affiliate member.  To help us better understand why AOAC INTERNATIONAL membership is a plus, our editorial director, Barbara Van Renterghem, spoke with two experts from both sides of the fence.  Dave Schmidt is AOAC INTERNATIONAL's new executive director as of May 1, 2018. Prior to joining AOAC, he was principal consultant for Schmidt Commonwealth Strategies, LLC. From 2006 to 2015, he served as president CEO of the International Food Information Council (IFIC) and CEO of the IFIC Foundation in Washington, D.C. He joined IFIC in 1993 and held positions from director to executive vice president prior to being elected CEO. Dave also served as the first Bush Administration's director of external affairs for the U.S. Department of Agriculture Food Safety and Inspection Service where he addressed food safety and nutrition issues and managed the inspection agency’s media, legislative, and consumer education programs. He also gained a thorough understanding of the food industry in previous sales positions with Oscar Mayer Foods, Pepsi-Cola USA, and Canada Dry Corp. He holds a B.A. in business administration from Vanderbilt University, and completed graduate business studies at the University of New Orleans. He has also served the Town of Leesburg, VA, as a town council member. Dr. Robert Donofrio is the director of food safety research and development for Neogen. He joined Neogen in February of 2016, responsible for the strategic vision, resource management, and coordination of product development activities for the following laboratory groups: Immunodiagnostics, Biochemistry, Neogen Culture Media, Molecular biology, Pathogen Detection and General Microbiology. Dr. Donofrio also oversees the Neogen Validation laboratory which is responsible for performing internal product validation and coordinating third-party product certification and approval through groups such as AOAC, AFNOR, Health Canada, and MicroVal. Dr. Donofrio is also responsible for establishing key collaborations with university and private research centers as well as evaluating novel technologies for potential integration into Neogen’s product portfolio. Prior to Neogen, Dr. Donofrio spent 16 years at NSF International, a public health and safety company.  During his tenure at NSF, Dr. Donofrio served as the director of the microbiology lab for over a decade, and then as director of the Applied Research Center for his final 3 years. He was awarded the NSF Star Employee Award in March of 2001 (was nominated for the same award in 2008), and guided his laboratory to the 2006 NSF Team of the Year Award. Dr. Donofrio obtained his B.S. in biology from the University of Dayton in 1994 and his M.S. in environmental microbiology from Duquesne University in 1996, where he was named Graduate Student of the Year.  Dr. Donofrio obtained his doctoral degree in microbiology from Michigan Technological University in May 2009.   Dr. Donofrio has authored dozens of publications for peer-reviewed journals, trade journals, and training materials. He is a full member of the International Association for Food Protection, Society of Industrial Microbiology and Biotechnology (SIMB), AOAC, American Society for Microbiology, Institute of Food Technology, and the American Association for the Advancement of Science.  He has served on the Board of Directors at SIMB for two terms.  In this episode, we speak to Neogen and AOAC INTERNATIONAL about: AOAC's history, mission, and funding Future growth opportunities in microbiological testing, dietary supplements, and cannabis Benefits of being an affiliate member Method validations offered by AOAC, and options for proprietary methods AOAC's laboratory proficiency testing program Performance tested methods program vs. official methods of analysis program The importance of AOAC approval to an affiliate member The process of getting a testing method or kit approved by AOAC Deciding which products will and will not go through the AOAC approval process Global harmonization efforts Education and training efforts, particularly for the new generation of scientists What it's like to partner with AOAC Resources AOAC Performance Tested Methods (PTM) Program AOAC Official Methods of Analysis (OMA) Program AOAC INTERNATIONAL  ANSR® Listeria Right Now™  Neogen Food Safety

Shawn Stevens is an attorney and founding member of the Food Industry Counsel, a law firm that provides food safety legal and regulatory consulting services exclusively for food industry clients, ultimately helping them anticipate, navigate, and resolve their most pressing food safety challenges.  As a food industry consultant and lawyer, Shawn works throughout the U.S. and abroad with food industry clients (including the world’s largest growers, processors, restaurant chains, distributors, and grocers) helping them protect their brand by reducing food safety risk, complying with U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and U.S. Department of Agriculture food safety regulations, managing recalls, and defending high-profile foodborne illness claims. Shawn also speaks regularly to audiences on a wide variety of emerging scientific, regulatory, and food safety legal trends. He authors columns for food industry publications, and he is quoted regularly by national media publications such as TIME Magazine, the New York Post, and Corporate Counsel.   In this episode of Food Safety Matters, we speak to Shawn Stevens about: What he sees as the biggest food safety challenges his clients are facing The Jack in the Box outbreak and how it changed the food industry An overview of what happens during FDA's Food Safety Modernization Act inspections His advice for food companies that expect to undergo a FSMA inspection What a food company should do in the event of a recall—before, during, and after The benefits of conducting a high-level mock recall Consumer responsibility vs. manufacturer/processor responsibility when it comes to ready-to-eat food products The concept of ready-to-prepare foods How food safety regulations are beginning to mimic those in the pharmaceutical industry Food companies' biggest liability How he would approach food safety in his own food company Trends in recall insurance and whether FDA will create thresholds for Listeria monocytogenes News Mentioned in This Episode FDA Investigation: Cyclospora Illnesses Linked to McDonald's Salads Supplied by Fresh Express  FDA Commissioner's Statement on Recent Cyclospora Illnesses  South Africa Listeria Outbreak Declared Over  FDA Sampling Assignment-Cyclospora in Fresh Herbs  FDA: Avoid Frozen Desserts and Drinks Made with Liquid Nitrogen   Keep Up with Food Safety Magazine Follow Us on Twitter @FoodSafetyMag, LinkedIn, and on Facebook  Subscribe to our magazine, and our bi-weekly eNewsletter We Want to Hear From You! Please share your comments, questions, and suggestions. Tell us about yourself—we'd love to hear about your food safety challenges and successes. We want to get to you know you! Here are a few ways to be in touch with us: Email us at podcast@foodsafetymagazine.com Record a voice memo on your phone and email it to us at podcast@foodsafetymagazine.com Leave us a voicemail at 747.231.6730

In 2008, Maple Leaf Foods had a devastating outbreak caused by Listeria contamination at one of its prepared meats facilities. It resulted in 23 deaths and many serious illnesses. Since this tragedy, Maple Leaf Foods has committed to becoming a global leader in food safety and has invested significant people and financial resources in achieving this commitment. Maple Leaf Foods is a leading consumer protein company, making high-quality, innovative products under national brands including Maple Leaf®, Maple Leaf Prime®, Maple Leaf Natural Selections®, Schneiders®, Schneiders® Country Naturals®, Mina®, Lightlife™, and Field Roast Grain Meat Co. ™. Maple Leaf is one of Canada’s flagship food companies, with sales of $3.3 billion dollars, employing approximately 11,500 people and does business in Canada, the U.S., and Asia. Maple Leaf is headquartered in Mississauga, Ontario. Michael McCain, President, and CEO of Maple Leaf Foods and Randy Huffman, Chief Food Safety and Sustainability Officer. Michael has devoted his career to the food industry, starting at McCain Foods in the late 1970's where he held a variety of roles, including President and Chief Executive Officer of McCain Foods USA.  He joined Maple Leaf Foods in 1995. Since then, he has been instrumental in establishing Maple Leaf as a strong and sustainable, values-based company with leading brands and a bold vision for the future. Dr. Randy Huffman joined Maple Leaf in 2009 and is currently Chief Food Safety and Sustainability Officer at the company.  This role encompasses Food Safety and Quality, Occupational Health, Safety and Security, Environmental Sustainability and Compliance, Animal Care and Corporate Engineering.   Randy also leads the company's Food Safety Advisory Council, a team of external experts with the mandate to increase Maple Leaf's access to global knowledge and expertise in food safety, including best practices, regulatory compliance, microbiology, and fostering a food safety culture. Prior to joining Maple Leaf Foods, Dr. Huffman served as President of the American Meat Institute (AMI) Foundation, as well as Senior Vice President Scientific Affairs for 9 years at AMI.    In this episode of Food Safety Matters, we speak to two Maple Leaf executives—Michael McCain and Randy Huffman about: What food safety processes and programs Maple Leaf had in place at the time of the 2008 listeriosis outbreak How complacency played a part in Maple Leaf's food safety crisis The steps Maple Leaf took in the hours, days, and weeks after learning of multiple illnesses and deaths How the tragedy led Maple Leaf to make a long-term food safety commitment to be a world leader in the food industry How Maple Leaf's story can help other food companies improve and avoid a similar situation What is believed to be the root cause of Maple Leaf's outbreak The consequences of not properly addressing positive environmental results The benefits of implementing a "seek and destroy" strategy Staying on top of food safety and swab results with a daily conference call that includes executive leadership The critical importance of segregation in ready-to-eat processing facilities What Maple Leaf might do differently if an outbreak or recall were to occur today The establishment of the Food Safety Advisory Council in 2009 How they commemorate the outbreak every August, particularly marking the 10-year anniversary in 2018 The 10th annual Food Safety Symposium Resources: Maple Leaf Food Safety Symposium Free eBook Download - Exclusive Food Safety Culture Collection Keep Up with Food Safety Magazine Follow Us on Twitter @FoodSafetyMag, and on Facebook  Subscribe to our magazine, and our biweekly eNewsletter We Want to Hear From You! Please share your comments, questions, and suggestions. Tell us about yourself—we'd love to hear about your food safety challenges and successes. We want to get to you know you! Here are a few ways to be in touch with us: Email us at podcast@foodsafetymagazine.com Record a voice memo on your phone and email it to us at podcast@foodsafetymagazine.com Leave us a voicemail at 747.231.6730

Frank Yiannas is the vice president of food safety at Walmart—the world's largest food retailer. In that role, Frank oversees all food safety—as well as other public health functions—for Walmart, serving over 200 million customers around the world on a weekly basis. His scope of responsibilities includes food safety oversight of Walmart’s stores, Neighborhood Markets, and Sam’s Clubs. He is also charged with training and education of associates, food safety oversight of thousands of food suppliers, and a number of critical regulatory compliance issues. Prior to joining Walmart in 2008, Frank was the director of safety and health for The Walt Disney Company, where he worked for 19 years. In 2001, under his tenure, Walt Disney World received the prestigious Black Pearl Award for corporate excellence in food safety by the International Association for Food Protection (IAFP). As a frequent speaker at national and international conferences, Frank is known for his ability to build partnerships. He is also known for his innovative approaches to food safety. In 2008, Frank was given the Collaboration Award by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration. He is the 2007 recipient of the NSF International Lifetime Achievement Award for Leadership in Food Safety, and the 2015 Industry Professional Food Safety Hero Award by STOP Foodborne Illness. Frank is also a past president of IAFP and a past vice chair of the Global Food Safety Initiative. He is also an adjunct professor in the food safety program at Michigan State University (MSU), and in 2017 was awarded the MSU Outstanding Faculty Award. Frank has authored two books—Food Safety Culture, Creating a Behavior-based Food Safety Management System, and Food Safety = Behavior, 30 Proven Techniques to Enhance Employee Compliance. Frank is a registered microbiologist with the American Academy of Microbiology and holds memberships with several professional associations. Frank received his B.Sc. in Microbiology from the University of Central Florida and his Master of Public Health from the University of South Florida. In this episode of Food Safety Matters, we speak to Frank about: Traditional food safety management vs. behavior-based food safety management Creating a successful food safety culture at Walmart Food safety programs implemented at Walmart stores Working with suppliers to improve food safety Walmart's initiatives around poultry and deli meat safety How Walmart associates use handheld technology for daily and periodic food safety checks His thoughts on blockchain technology, what it is, how it can improve the future of food safety, and how it could have possibly prevented past outbreaks How Walmart has started using blockchain traceability with some produce items Working with small suppliers who may be exempt from federal food safety regulations Advice for new food safety professionals Bob Ferguson's Food Safety Insights Articles Lessons Learned: Careers in Food Safety (August/September 2018) Listeria: An Important Focus of Environmental Monitoring (June/July 2018) Sanitation Verification for Allergen Control (April/May 2018) Testing and Sanitation for Allergen Control (February/March 2018)  Outsourcing: Pathogen Testing under the Microscope (December 2017/January 2018) The New Face of Sanitation Programs: New Rules, New Challenges (October/November 2017) A Closer Look at Environmental Monitoring in the Processing Plant (August/September 2017) What Industry and FDA Are Thinking About FSMA Implementation (June/July 2017) The Drivers of Differences in Food Safety Testing Practices (April/May 2017) A Look at the Microbiology Testing Market (February/March 2017) News Mentioned in This Episode Chipotle to Retrain All Workers on Food Safety After Ohio Episode  Chipotle Illness Outbreak; Employees Must Take Food Safety Test  Delaware General Health District-Aug. 16 Update  Caito Foods' pre-cut melon recall and Salmonella outbreak  Caito Foods' salad Cyclospora outbreak McDonald's/Fresh Express salad Cyclospora outbreak  Court Orders EPA to Ban Chlorpyrifos, Pesticide Tied to Children's Health Problems  Court Orders Trump EPA to Ban Controversial Pesticide  Three Companies Flip; Reveal Suppliers of Romaine Linked to Deadly E. coli Outbreak CDC's final romaine lettuce outbreak update Presenting Sponsor: FoodLogiQ FoodLogiQ is launching a blockchain pilot to research opportunities and challenges of this emerging technology within the food industry. Learn More about FoodLogiQ's Blockchain Pilot  Watch On-Demand Demo  Download eBook: The Fact, Fiction, and Future of Blockchain Keep Up with Food Safety Magazine Follow Us on Twitter @FoodSafetyMag, and on Facebook  Subscribe to our magazine, and our bi-weekly eNewsletter We Want to Hear From You! Please share your comments, questions, and suggestions. Tell us about yourself - we'd love to hear about your food safety challenges and successes. We want to get to you know you! Here are a few ways to be in touch with us. Email us at podcast@foodsafetymagazine.com Record a voice memo on your phone and email it to us at podcast@foodsafetymagazine.com Leave us a voicemail at 747.231.6730

Dane Bernard is currently the managing director of Bold Bear Food Safety where he offers consulting services. Prior to that, he served as the vice president of food safety and quality assurance at Keystone Foods until 2014. That role also included responsibilities over global programs on Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Points (HACCP) and food safety. Before that, Dane was the vice president of food safety for the National Food Processors Association (NFPA)—formerly the National Canners Association—an organization he joined in 1973.  Dane is a registered specialist in food, dairy, and sanitation microbiology with the American Academy of Microbiology. He has also done extensive testing of food processing systems, supervised research in many areas of food safety, and has authored/co-authored many technical articles. Dane has been an instructor and lecturer on principles and applications of HACCP and has helped to formulate HACCP plans for the U.S. food industry. He’s has been invited as an expert to five International Consultations—sponsored by the Food and Agriculture Organization and the World Health Organization—that dealt with certain aspects of HACCP, risk analysis, and other food safety issues. Dane received an M.Sc. in Food Microbiology from University of Maryland, College Park. Finally, Dane was a recipient of the Food Safety Magazine Distinguished Service Award in 2017. In this episode of Food Safety Matters, we speak to Dane about: How he got started in the field of food microbiology so early His 28 years with the National Food Processors Association Working in the U.S. Army as a food inspector His thoughts on the shift from HAACP to HARPC (Hazard Analysis and Risk-Based Preventive Controls)  How HACCP regulations originated and evolved over the years The importance of soft skills and learning to work with other divisions within a single organization His time at Keystone Foods What it takes to be a good, effective manager The challenge of getting management to approve additional resources for food safety Why he hasn't totally and officially retired yet Where he thinks the food safety needs to focus in the near future We also speak with Hilary Thesmar (Food Marketing Institute) and Marianne Gravely (U.S. Department of Agriculture Food Safety and Inspection Service) and about: The processes that retailers use to minimize cross-contamination and keep consumers safe from allergens The importance of accurate labeling and making sure that every food product only contains ingredients listed on the label Food allergen labels and what is not required for meat and poultry products regulated by FSIS The complexities of allergen labeling for ingredients within a supply chain  Allergen labels that are—and are not—required for some food products Messaging efforts that FMI and FSIS have in place for their respective audiences About Hilary Thesmar In her role as the chief food and product safety officer and senior vice president of food safety programs for the Food Marketing Institute  (FMI), Dr. Thesmar provides leadership for all safety programs for FMI’s retail and wholesale members and provides support for members on food safety training programs, FSMA training, recall plans and management, crisis management, research, and overall safety and sanitation programs. Dr. Thesmar has a Ph.D. in food technology from Clemson University, an M.Sc. in human nutrition from Winthrop University, a B.Sc. in food science from Clemson, and she is a Registered Dietitian. She has over a decade of experience in scientific and regulatory affairs with food trade associations.  About Marianne Gravely Marianne joined the U.S. Department of Agriculture's (USDA's) Meat and Poultry Hotline staff in 1988. As the senior technical information specialist, she provides consumers with safe food handling guidance daily through phone, live chat, and email inquiries and is one of the persons behind the USDA virtual representative “Ask Karen” answering food safety questions. She also researches and writes materials for the Food Safety Inspection Service website, and handles media inquiries. Marianne has a Bachelor of Science degree in home economics with an emphasis on foods and nutrition from Hood College in Frederick, MD. She received her M.Sc. in human nutrition and foods from Virginia Tech.  Related Content  BOOK: The First 90 Days https://amzn.to/2nwPuCG USDA FSIS http://bit.ly/2vY8deh USDA FSIS History http://bit.ly/2MGOlU0 Milestones in U.S. Food and Drug Law History http://bit.ly/2MeThDu News Mentioned in This Episode Romaine Lettuce Outbreak: FDA Identifies Cattle Operation Near Contaminated Canal Water http://bit.ly/2M7poE3 Chipotle Store Temporarily Closes Amid Hundreds of Foodborne Illness Complaints http://bit.ly/2O4nyRV Delaware General Health District Updates http://bit.ly/2MjB0nB  FDA Update on FSMA's Produce Safety Rule http://bit.ly/2LUFwZy  Whey Powder Salmonella Recall Impacts Popular Household Snack Brands http://bit.ly/2vGrhyn Listeriosis Outbreak Situation Report-July 2018 http://bit.ly/2AX9ic0  Pre-Cut Melon Salmonella Outbreak Declared Over http://bit.ly/2MhqjhA  Ongoing Del Monte Vegetable Tray Outbreak http://bit.ly/2MQlsVS  UPDATE: McDonald's Cyclospora Illnesses Linked to Fresh Express Salads http://bit.ly/2Mz6OS9  Keep Up with Food Safety Magazine Follow Us on Twitter - @FoodSafetyMag  twitter.com/FoodSafetyMag and on Facebook facebook.com/FoodSafetyMagazine Subscribe to our magazine http://bit.ly/subscribefoodsafety, and our bi-weekly eNewsletter http://bit.ly/foodsafetynewsletter We Want to Hear From You! Please share your comments, questions, and suggestions. Tell us about yourself - we'd love to hear about your food safety challenges and successes. We want to get to you know you! Here are a few ways to be in touch with us. Email us at podcast@foodsafetymagazine.com Record a voice memo on your phone and email it to us at podcast@foodsafetymagazine.com Leave us a voicemail at 747-231-6730

Earlier this month, the Food Safety Magazine team gathered in Salt Lake City, UT for the Annual Meeting of the International Association for Food Protection (IAFP). The IAFP Annual Meeting was attended by more than 3,800 top industry, academic, and governmental food safety professionals from six continents. Each year, this premiere event for industry professionals convenes and discusses current and emerging food safety issues, the latest science, and innovative solutions to new and recurring problems. The meeting also presents opportunities to network with thousands of food safety professionals from around the globe. While in Salt Lake City, we invited experts from across the industry to come to our booth and chat with us about all things food safety. Some of those impromptu conversations and interviews are included in our 30th installment of the Food Safety Matters podcast. In this episode of Food Safety Matters, we spoke to a number of food safety professionals about a variety of hot topics: Tim Stubbs, National Dairy Council (NDC) NDC's role within the dairy industry, resources provided, etc. Various food technologies including atmospheric plasma for packaging treatment, antimicrobial use in cheese, and more How food safety and technology has evolved over the last few years Will Daniels, IEH Laboratories & Consulting Group The romaine lettuce outbreak that originated in the Yuma, AZ, growing region and new food safety issues that have been brought to the forefront because of it One health concept: Escherichia coli, Salmonella, and soil… the connection between the animal world and the produce world Reducing microbial shedding events Community relations and food safety Lessons learned from the Earthbound Farms spinach outbreak Communicating risk within an organization, and publicly  Paul Kiecker, U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) His roles within USDA What “modernizing” does (and does not) mean What food companies should expect USDA inspection roles (vs. U.S. Food and Drug Administration roles) Top priorities at USDA in terms of modernization Progress with pathogen sampling and whole-genome sequencing use Salmonella as an adulterant Standard setting for Campylobacter Carmen Rottenberg, USDA An in-depth conversation about USDA's study on consumer handwashing, meal preparation, and thermometer use http://bit.ly/2JNMKJz Keep Up with Food Safety Magazine Follow Us on Twitter - @FoodSafetyMag https://twitter.com/FoodSafetyMag and on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/FoodSafetyMagazine Subscribe to our magazine http://bit.ly/subscribefoodsafety, and our bi-weekly eNewsletter http://bit.ly/foodsafetynewsletter We Want to Hear From You! Please share your comments, questions, and suggestions. Tell us about yourself - we'd love to hear about your food safety challenges and successes. We want to get to you know you! Here are a few ways to be in touch with us. Email us at podcast@foodsafetymagazine.com Record a voice memo on your phone and email it to us at podcast@foodsafetymagazine.com Leave us a voicemail at 747-231-6730

Sean Leighton is the vice president of food safety and quality for Cargill, based in Wayzata, MN. In August 2018, Sean will be moving into the role of vice president corporate food safety, quality and regulatory for Cargill when Mike Robach retires. Prior to joining Cargill, Sean worked for over 13 years at The Coca-Cola Company in various roles across quality, food safety, and environmental sustainability. He worked in the U.S., Canada, and Europe.  Sean has a B.Sc. in Bacteriology from the University of Wisconsin-Madison, a Master of Science degree in Food Science from the University of Minnesota, and an MBA from Emory University.  Sean sits on the advisory board of many organizations, including the International Association for Food Protection's Journal of Food Protection, The Center for Food Safety (University of Georgia), the Grocery Manufacturers Association's Science & Education Foundation, and the Food Fraud Think Tank (Michigan State University). Sean is also a member of the Food Safety Magazine Editorial Advisory Board. In this episode of Food Safety Matters, we speak to Sean about: Food safety vs. food quality culture The difference between making safety decisions vs. quality decisions How food safety and quality are sometimes at odds with other corporate departments and their business goals Making the case for food safety when cost-benefit is at play Building a food safety culture with the younger, millennial workforce, and dealing with quick turnover rates Sean's thoughts on today's biggest food safety challenges Connecting the dots between food safety, technology, finance, and all other parts of a business How earning an MBA has shaped his career path His mentors and influencers over the years What he believes is the next big opportunity for food safety The opportunities and problems with big data News Mentioned in This Episode Yuma Region Environmental Samples Test Positive for E. coli http://bit.ly/2KMQC2c Politico - Victims Blame FDA for Food Recall Failures https://politi.co/2MQCq5G Study: Consumers are Spreading Bacteria All Over the Kitchen http://bit.ly/2Nsa4Ql - Study/Executive Summary http://bit.ly/2NscAWA  Free eBook Download - Exclusive Food Safety Culture Collection http://go.foodsafetymagazine.com/culture/  Keep Up with Food Safety Magazine Follow Us on Twitter - @FoodSafetyMag https://twitter.com/FoodSafetyMag and on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/FoodSafetyMagazine  Subscribe to our magazine http://bit.ly/2KQB8Hc, and our bi-weekly eNewsletter http://bit.ly/foodsafetynewsletter Presenting Sponsor: Solus Scientific  Complete Solus Pathogen Testing Platform http://bit.ly/2MRghUY  Solus One Listeria http://bit.ly/2u0Ez7N  Solus One Listeria PDF http://bit.ly/2IYGWNf Share Your Feedback with Us Please feel free to share any questions, comments, or even a suggestion on someone we should interview, let us know! There are two ways for podcast listeners to interact with us. Leave us a voicemail at 747-231-7630. Be sure to leave your contact information so we can get back in touch with you! Email us at podcast@foodsafetymagazine.com. 

In this special BONUS episode of Food Safety Matters, we focus on the topic of blockchain and how it can be used within the food industry.  You will learn all about what exactly blockchain is, its history, and how it can be applied to our food supply chain. To help us better understand blockchain's use in the food sector, our editorial director, Barbara Van Renterghem, spoke with two experts from FoodLogiQ (http://bit.ly/2KaeJIC).  Katy Jones is the chief marketing officer at FoodLogiQ. She holds a bachelor’s degree in journalism and mass communication from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, and a master’s degree in data marketing communications from West Virginia University. Charles Irizarry is the chief technology officer at FoodLogiQ. He oversees technology efforts and core company building activities at FoodLogiQ. His experience includes managing sophisticated, multi-disciplinary technology teams, having launched over 20 different platforms and products across multiple businesses and industries. With a background in distributed computing systems and cloud-based software architectures, Charles is currently focused on innovation in the areas of natural language processing, machine learning, and real-time computational networks. He has a bachelor’s degree from Florida International University in business management and marketing. FoodLogiQ, together with a select group of customers, recently announced the launch of a Blockchain pilot. AgBiome Innovations, Subway®- Independent Purchasing Cooperative, Testo, Tyson Foods and others are partnering with FoodLogiQ to test the application of blockchain to raise transparency within their own supply chains.  In this episode, we speak to FoodLogiQ about: The history and concept behind blockchain technology How and why more people, companies, and industries are investing in blockchain, even if prematurely How blockchain could potentially impact and benefit the food industry "Public" vs. "permissioned" blockchains FoodLogiQ's blockchain pilot How blockchain might play a role in boosting consumer confidence in a time of many foodborne illness outbreaks and food product recalls How food suppliers, manufacturers, and operators can prepare for blockchain Resources:  Learn More: FoodLogiQ Blockchain Pilot http://bit.ly/2KaeJIC Register to Attend: FoodLogiQ Demo: Exploring Blockchain Solutions within the Food Supply Chain http://bit.ly/2lyMvII Download eBook: The Fact, Fiction, and Future of Blockchain http://bit.ly/2IuhDCx Presenting Sponsor: FoodLogiQ http://bit.ly/2KaeJIC

Dr. Bob Brackett is the vice president of the Illinois Institute of Technology (IIT) http://bit.ly/2yvT9ck and director of the Institute for Food Safety and Health (IFSH) http://bit.ly/2KbZaiV.  Prior to joining IIT, Dr. Brackett served as senior vice president and chief science and regulatory officer for the Grocery Manufacturers Association.  Before that, he served at the U.S. Food and Drug Administration’s (FDA's) Center for Food Safety and Applied Nutrition (CFSAN). His initial role there was as a senior microbiologist. After several promotions, Dr. Brackett was appointed CFSAN director, where he provided executive leadership to CFSAN’s development and implementation of programs and policies relative to the composition, quality, safety, and labeling of foods, food and color additives, dietary supplements, and cosmetics. Earlier in his career, Dr. Brackett held professorial positions with North Carolina State University and the University of Georgia. Dr. Brackett has been honored with the FDA Award of Merit, the FDA Distinguished Alumni Award, the Department of Health and Human Services Secretary’s Award for Distinguished Service, the International Association for Food Protection's President’s Appreciation Award, and the William C. Frazier Food Microbiology Award.  Bob received his doctorate in food microbiology from the University of Wisconsin-Madison. He is a member of the Food Safety Magazine editorial advisory board.  In this episode of Food Safety Matters, we speak to Bob Brackett about: The impetus behind starting IIT IIT's collaborative research practices His research on nanotechnology in the food industry and why he thinks that type of research has become less of an industry focus The growing interest in researching the survival and elimination of pathogens from low-moisture ingredients New technologies being used in food safety: high-pressure, pulse light, and cool plasma IIT's Biocontaminant Pilot Plant Current studies and research that may help to explain what happened in the recent romaine lettuce E. coli outbreak, and the 2006 spinach outbreak Joint research with FDA that found an effective way to clean pipes and rid them of Salmonella bacteria in a peanut butter production facility IIT's work with NOROCORE and norovirus interventions What goes on at the Center for Nutrition Research, the Center for Process Innovation, and the Center for Specialty Programs The most innovative developments to come out of IIT IIT's top goals moving forward His advice to food safety graduate students Related Content and Resources: Illinois Institute of Technology http://bit.ly/2yvT9ck  Institute for Food Safety and Health http://bit.ly/2KbZaiV  News Mentioned in This Episode: Feedback Wanted: FDA to Seek Comments on Cell Culture Technology Use in Food Sector http://bit.ly/2JV4O8U  FDA's Constituent Update/Public Meeting Announcement on Cell Culture Technology http://bit.ly/2tBuL3l FDA Commissioner Scott Gottlieb's Statement on Cell Culture Technology http://bit.ly/2Mf9d3V  Safe Food for Canadians Regulations Announced for 2019 http://bit.ly/2HN5HLx  Pre-Cut Fruit Causes Multistate Salmonella Outbreak http://bit.ly/2JtkhxyFDA Outbreak Updates http://bit.ly/2MhqjhA  CDC Advisory: Do Not Consume Any Kellogg's Honey Smacks Cereal http://bit.ly/2JX4p2r  FDA: Del Monte Vegetable Trays Linked to Multistate Cyclospora Outbreak http://bit.ly/2MQlsVS  Darin Detwiler to Receive Food Safety Magazine's Distinguished Service Award http://bit.ly/2kEx4hP Bob Ferguson's Food Safety Insights Articles: Listeria: An Important Focus of Environmental Monitoring (June/July 2018) http://bit.ly/2th4B6x Sanitation Verification for Allergen Control (April/May 2018) http://bit.ly/2vpsP1P Testing and Sanitation for Allergen Control (February/March 2018) http://bit.ly/2Bux9hU Outsourcing: Pathogen Testing under the Microscope (December 2017/January 2018) http://bit.ly/2HH04ml The New Face of Sanitation Programs: New Rules, New Challenges (October/November 2017) http://bit.ly/2kYlT6y A Closer Look at Environmental Monitoring in the Processing Plant (August/September 2017) http://bit.ly/2qSbx8G What Industry and FDA Are Thinking About FSMA Implementation (June/July 2017) http://bit.ly/2sMrOyA The Drivers of Differences in Food Safety Testing Practices (April/May 2017) http://bit.ly/2p8edwL A Look at the Microbiology Testing Market (February/March 2017) http://bit.ly/2khVWy6 Presenting Sponsor: Purell® Foodservice Surface Sanitizer kills norovirus in 30 seconds. No rinse required. To get a free bottle, visit podcast.purellsurface.com Share Your Feedback with Us: Please feel free to share any questions, comments, or even a suggestion on someone we should interview, let us know! There are two ways for podcast listeners to interact with us. Leave us a voicemail at 747-231-7630. Be sure to leave your contact information so we can get back in touch with you! Email us at podcast@foodsafetymagazine.com. 

    Mike Robach is vice president, corporate food safety, quality, & regulatory for Cargill based in Minneapolis, MN. Mike joined Cargill in January 2004 to lead the company’s corporate food safety and regulatory affairs programs. Since then, Mike has increased the department’s scope to include animal health and quality assurance. He continues to refocus the department toward global efforts in line with Cargill’s vision of being the global leader in nourishing people. Mike began his career with Monsanto Company. Prior to joining Cargill, he headed up technical services for Conti Group’s meat and poultry businesses. Mike is the past president of Safe Supply of Affordable Food Everywhere, chairman of the Board of Directors of the Global Food Safety Initiative (GFSI), a member of the Scientific and Regulatory Affairs Council Executive Committee for the Grocery Manufacturers Association, and a member of the U.S. Poultry and Egg Association’s Research Advisory Committee. Mike has worked with the World Organization of Animal Health and the Food and Agriculture Organization on harmonized animal health and food safety standards. He has worked closely with the U.S. Department of Agriculture and the U.S. Food and Drug Administration regarding food safety policy, Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Points, and regulatory reforms based on science. From 1995 through 2000, Mike was a member of the National Advisory Committee for Microbiological Criteria in Foods. Mike is a graduate of Michigan State University and Virginia Tech. It was recently announced that Mike will be retiring from Cargill on August 1, 2018, but will be continuing his term as chairman of the GFSI board. In this episode of Food Safety Matters, we speak to Mike about: Why GFSI exists, the early days of the organization, and how it has evolved globally over the years GFSI’s Global Markets Program Cargill’s involvement with GFSI GFSI’s primary objectives What GFSI does and does NOT do How GFSI works with scheme owners such as BRC, SQF, etc. His thoughts on the various schemes and how they stack up to FSMA GFSI compliance vs. FSMA compliance GFSI’s progress with public/private partnerships Challenges facing GFSI and goals that GFSI will be working on in the coming years How companies can become involved with GFSI What he’s learned over the course of his career His advice to food safety professionals News Mentioned in This Episode: Five Deaths in Romaine Lettuce Outbreak http://bit.ly/2Ll5jpY  Leafy Greens Industry Forms Task Force in Light of Romaine Lettuce Outbreak http://bit.ly/2xrWbh1  FDA Shares Traceback Details for Romaine Lettuce E. coli Outbreak as Investigation Continues http://bit.ly/2JipY0x  FDA Should Make Leafy Greens a Priority, Say Consumer and Food Safety Advocacy Groups http://bit.ly/2Mgfjlu Resources: Global Food Safety Initiative (GFSI) http://bit.ly/2sRdIKM IAFP Annual Meeting http://bit.ly/2t5PY5d Presenting Sponsor: KLEANZ by Nexcor Technologies http://bit.ly/2JCHr0v Everything Food Safety in One Place in Real-Time KLEANZ is the only complete Food Safety Compliance Solution that focuses on risk mitigation, driving continuous improvement, and adhering to all applicable compliance requirement while managing resources. KLEANZ protects your customers and brand. KLEANZ Food Safety Compliance (In-Depth) http://bit.ly/2JzoM5K KLEANZ Food Safety Compliance (Quick Facts) http://bit.ly/2l4J5NP KLEANZ.com http://bit.ly/2JCHr0v Share Your Feedback with Us: Please feel free to share any questions, comments, or even a suggestion on someone we should interview; let us know! There are two ways for podcast listeners to interact with us: Leave us a voicemail at 747-231-7630. Be sure to leave your contact information so we can get back in touch with you! Email us at podcast@foodsafetymagazine.com.