For 38 years, the National Food Policy Conference has offered a valuable forum for collaboration among consumer advocates, representatives from the food industry and government officials. IDFA is a co-sponsor of the event, which is organized annually by the Consumer Federation of America to foster continued dialogue on agriculture, food and nutrition policy.
The conference will be held April 21-22, at the Capital Hilton Hotel in Washington, D.C., and members are invited to attend.
Of particular interest is a panel discussion on “The Farmer Perspective,” featuring Chuck Ahlem, co-owner of Hilmar Jerseys, which earned the 2015 Innovative Dairy Farmer of the Year Award. Representing different parts of agriculture, these panelists will discuss how current issues facing farmers have evolved over the years. They also will discuss how consumer preferences and market demands are shaping their decisions and actions.
Two IDFA member companies will be represented on the program as well. Philippe Caradec, vice president of corporate affairs for The Dannon Company, Inc., will participate in a panel discussion on “Dietary Guidelines for Americans: Past, Present and Future.” Tim Jackson, director of food safety for Nestle North America, will join other panelists to explore effective strategies for “Implementing the Food Safety Modernization Act.”
Another session, “Food Policy Under the Obama Administration,” will also be relevant for dairy companies. This panel will examine food policy achievements and challenges, identify the activities expected to be accomplished during the next two years and review the role Congress may play in food policy in the future.
Other agenda topics include:
- What Would a National Food Policy Look Like?
- Fast Food Fight
- Food Policy from the Ground Up
- Consumer Perspectives on Food and Technology
- Improving Child Nutrition
- Use By/ Sell By/ Best By – What Does It All Mean?
For more information and to register, visit National Food Policy Conference.
Members with questions may contact Ruth Saunders, IDFA vice president of policy and legislative affairs, at rsaunders@idfa.org.