2025 BREAKOUT SESSIONS
FOOD SAFETY
Microbes 101
Erica Miller, Eurofins Microbiology Laboratories
Africa 50, 9:30-10:30AM
In today’s dynamic food safety landscape, selecting the appropriate detection method is critical to ensuring accurate, timely, and cost-effective pathogen control. This session explores current and emerging technologies—from traditional culture methods to rapid molecular diagnostics—and offers guidance on method selection based on risk, regulatory compliance, and operational needs. Attendees will gain insights into the strengths, limitations, and real-world applications of leading detection platforms.
From Chaos to Compliance: Using People Data to Build a Strong Food Safety Culture under SQF Edition 10
Mike White, Secchi &
Ava Scherzberg, American Pasteurization Company
Africa 50, 10:45-11:45AM
SQF Edition 10 places a new emphasis on building, measuring, and sustaining a food safety culture—requiring leadership accountability, measurable goals, and proactive strategies. For many manufacturers, this shift can feel overwhelming, adding to the complexity of already chaotic people operations. In this session, Mike White, Founder & CEO of Secchi, along with Ava Scherzberg of American Pasteurization Company will explore how a data-driven approach to people operations can transform the way organizations meet these new SQF requirements. By connecting workforce analytics to food safety initiatives, companies can move from reactive, paper-driven compliance toward proactive, measurable culture-building. Attendees will learn how to: · Streamline documentation and audits while empowering leadership and employees alike · Apply data to track and strengthen food safety culture metrics · Integrate SQF Edition 10 requirements into existing workforce planning and training programs. Through real-world case studies and practical tools, this session demonstrates how the right data can bridge the gap between chaos and clarity, helping food manufacturers not just comply with SQF 10—but leverage it as a driver of operational excellence.
Metal Separation for Food Processing
Kevin Baker, Magnattack
Africa 50, 1:30-2:30PM
Metal separation is essential in food processing to eliminate ferrous and non-ferrous contaminants that can harm consumers, damage equipment, and violate safety regulations. Complimentary to metal detection, magnetic separators actively remove metals from the product stream. Key design factors include hygienic construction, easy maintenance, and seamless integration.
Understanding the Latest Food Recalls and How to Prevent Them
Leah Ziemba, Michael Best
Africa 50, 2:45-3:45PM
This breakout session will explore recent high-profile food recalls, examining the legal implications for food manufacturers and their supply chain partners. Experts will discuss liability frameworks, regulatory compliance challenges and the impact on brand reputation. Attendees will learn practical strategies for risk mitigation and discuss appropriate strategies for a response. The session aims to foster proactive approaches to food safety and legal accountability.