This dynamic session explores how the meat industry’s food safety landscape has evolved—and where it's headed next. Industry experts will reflect on pivotal regulatory and scientific milestones that shaped current practices, assess today’s most pressing food safety challenges, and share insights into the future of innovation, policy, and public health. Attendees will gain a broader understanding of the forces driving change in food safety and what it means for regulatory compliance, consumer trust, and industry responsibility moving forward. 

A strong food safety culture starts at the top. This session will explore effective strategies for gaining and maintaining executive-level support for food safety initiatives. Speaker will share insights on how to align food safety goals with business priorities, communicate risk in terms leadership understands, and foster accountability at every level of the organization. Whether you're building a case for investment, navigating organizational change, or looking to strengthen cross-functional collaboration, this session will provide practical tools and examples to help food safety professionals influence and engage leadership in meaningful, lasting ways. 

As regulatory scrutiny of chemical use in food production continues to intensify, post-market reassessment has emerged as a critical component of ensuring ongoing safety and compliance. In this session, Brian Eyink of Hogan Lovells will examine the evolving legal and regulatory framework surrounding post-market chemical reviews, with a focus on antimicrobials, processing aids, and other substances commonly used in the meat industry. The discussion will include triggers for reassessment, recent enforcement trends, and strategies companies can use to navigate regulatory uncertainty while maintaining market access and consumer trust. 

Building a strong food safety team starts with hiring the right people and creating an environment where they can thrive. In this session, Jill Stuber of Catalyst will share proven strategies for developing, and retaining effective food safety professionals in the meat industry. She will explore how to identify key competencies, align team structures with business objectives, and foster cross-functional collaboration. Attendees will walk away with actionable insights on workforce planning, how to cultivate a resilient food safety culture through intentional team-building. 

Presented by Susan Usjack, this session offers an exclusive preview of the comprehensive Foundations of Listeria Control online course, which is to be released this fall. Explore the full curriculum—from understanding Listeria monocytogenes and outbreak history to advanced prevention strategies, sanitation, environmental monitoring, and positive finding investigations. 

Learn how this course equips food safety professionals with practical tools and science-based knowledge to build effective Listeria control programs.  

Join us for insights into strengthening your team’s expertise and enhancing your plant’s food safety culture. 

PFAS contamination is becoming an increasing concern for the food industry. This session will explore the latest science, regulatory updates, and risk management approaches related to these persistent contaminants. Attendees will learn about potential impacts on meat and poultry products and how to prepare for evolving expectations from regulators, customers, and consumers.  

Join industry Meat Institute’s Director of Regulatory Services Roya Galindo for an interactive workshop focused on the Noncompliance Record (NR) process. This session will provide a practical, hands-on review of how establishments can analyze, respond to, and learn from NRs to support continuous improvement and regulatory compliance. Attendees will explore real-world examples, gain insights into common NR trends, and discuss effective strategies for developing robust, accurate responses. Whether you're new to NR review or seeking to refine your approach, this session offers valuable tools for strengthening your food safety and regulatory programs. 

What does it take to go beyond “just compliant” in food safety? In this engaging general session, industry leaders will explore how shifting mindsets—from top leadership to frontline teams—can drive lasting cultural change. 

This session will unpack the difference between checking the box and building true ownership of food safety across an organization. Walk away with fresh insights, real-world strategies, and a renewed perspective on what food safety commitment really looks like.