The partial government shutdown continues to generate uncertainty for dairy. It’s a critical time to hear from administration leaders about what the industry can expect now and during the year ahead. That’s why IDFA has slated a current and former official from the Trump administration to share timely insights at Dairy Forum 2019 on Jan. 21 in Orlando, Fla.

The program will feature remarks from Gregory Ibach, U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) undersecretary for marketing and regulatory programs, and Stephen Ostroff, M.D., recently retired deputy commissioner for foods and veterinary medicine at the Food and Drug Administration (FDA).

Ibach most recently led USDA’s efforts to purchase up to $135 million in cheese and, for the first time ever, pasteurized fluid milk for delivery to food banks across America. To continue building on the success of these efforts, he’ll discuss the ways that industry can continue to advance dairy policy by working closely with Agriculture Secretary Sonny Perdue and his team.

Following Ibach’s remarks, Dr. Ostroff will share a broad perspective on the future of food safety and what to expect from FDA in 2019 and beyond. He’ll also discuss the new technologies and transparency FDA is incorporating to continue to assure consumers of the safety of their food choices.

Dairy Forum’s Monday lineup promises to pack a powerful program of sessions covering the policies, regulations and trends that will define the future of the dairy industry. Michael Dykes, D.V.M., IDFA president and CEO will kick off the morning with a presentation highlighting the industry’s many successes and will explore new ways dairy can work together to lead dairy forward.

The full Dairy Forum 2019 program will encompass topics that move dairy forward and position the industry for growth. Renowned experts and top industry officials will share their insights and perspectives on a wide variety of relevant topics that will advance dairy on the path forward to growth and prosperity.

Visit the online agenda for a full listing of sessions and topics and register online.

Dairy Forum 2019 will be held Jan. 20-23 at The Ritz-Carlton Grande Lakes in Orlando, Fla.

Members with questions may contact Melissa Lembke, IDFA director of programs and partnerships, at registrar@idfa.org.