Register Now to Join in the Dairy Food Safety Alliance Meeting August 27 in Madison
Food safety professionals can register now at WisCheeseMakers.org for a meeting of the Dairy Food Safety Alliance set for Tuesday, August 27 at the Crowne Plaza in Madison. The Alliance, a partnership between Center for Dairy Research (CDR), Dairy Farmers of Wisconsin (DFW) and Wisconsin Cheese Makers Association (WCMA), delivers the latest in food safety news to dairy product manufacturers, processors, and their suppliers.
“Regulations and inspection practices are continually changing, and our industry must adjust to meet new standards,” said John Umhoefer, WCMA Executive Director. “Via the Dairy Food Safety Alliance, our organizations aim to provide the information and support dairy manufacturers and processors need to ensure the highest confidence in American dairy products.”
The August meeting agenda for the Dairy Food Safety Alliance features Wisconsin Department of Agriculture, Trade, and Consumer Protection (WDATCP) Dairy Section Chief Tim Anderson presenting an update on state and FSMA regulations, as well as current audit practices. WDATCP Recall and Response Coordinator James Beix is also set to share insight on the work of the agency’s rapid response team and its outbreak and recall investigation strategies. CROPP Cooperative/Organic Valley Director of Quality and Food Safety Gloria Joseph is set to speak, providing her experience with and advice for third party audits.
CDR Coordinator of Food Safety Marianne Smukowski will share what dairy manufacturers and processors can expect from a U.S. Food and Drug Administration assignment. Smukowski noted, “I would encourage all to attend this Dairy Food Safety Alliance meeting. Attendees will hear about a number of vital topics and be able to get answers to the questions they have regarding them.”
Along with DFW Director of Food Safety, Quality, and Regulatory Compliance Adam Brock, all speakers will participate in a question-and-answer session to cap off the meeting.
"A food safety issue can destroy a brand, severely impact the dairy supply-chain and harm the consumer. It's imperative that we work together with our industry stakeholders to proactively address issues. There should be no secrets in food safety," said Brock. "The Wisconsin dairy industry continues to be a leader in food safety because of collaborative efforts such as the Dairy Food Safety Alliance."
Participation in the Dairy Food Safety Alliance is open to all dairy manufacturers, processors, and related suppliers, regardless of membership with WCMA. All registrants are asked to pay a $35 fee to attend, which includes the cost of a catered lunch. Complete details are available now at WisCheeseMakers.org. Questions may be directed to WCMA Events Manager Kirsten Strohmenger at kstrohmenger@wischeesemakers.org.