The Peanut and Tree Nut Processors Association (PTNPA) hosted its annual Technical Forum June 28 and 29 in Chicago.
Conference participants included corporate food safety and quality assurance experts, company owners, FDA leaders, food defence and supply chain safety experts — and PTNPA member company representatives willing to share their insights and experiences. Presenters and attendees focused on and openly discussed the rapidly changing nature of the technology, collaboration and adaptability required to constantly manage and continue to enhance a safe, stable food supply.
“The PTNPA Technical Forum brings together nut industry leaders and representatives who work tirelessly to continually innovate and prioritize food safety while managing supply chain challenges and critical manufacturing quality measures. We were thrilled to hear directly from food safety and regulatory experts, including the FDA, along with our own PTNPA members, who are informed authorities in quality and safety assurance. There is something powerful that happens when a group of professionals come together to collaborate on new strategies and examine current obstacles, resources and opportunities — resulting in a stronger nut industry for all involved,” said Jeannie Shaughnessy, executive director and CEO, PTNPA.
PTNPA Technical Forum Highlights
Educational presentations designed specifically for PTNPA Technical Forum purposes focused on specific methods, technologies and best practices for working in formidably complex conditions and markets, and the ongoing industrywide expansion and elevation of food safety. Expert presenters included Dr. John Spink, professor at Michigan State University and director of the Food Fraud Initiative; Rod Wheeler, founder and CEO of The Global Food Defence Institute; Jenny Scott, senior advisor for the FDA Centre for Food Safety and Applied Nutrition; Dr. Lauren Jackson, chief of process engineering for FDA/CFSAN Division of Food Processing Science and Technology; and general counsel Martin Hahn of Hogan Lovells. Topics spanned regulatory guidance updates, proactive supply management insights, global food defence case studies, and associated scientific and technical solutions for an increasingly complex industry.
The PTNPA Technical Forum included interactive panels that candidly addressed food safety realities, expectations and actionable takeaways that participants could apply to their operations immediately.
The Only Nut Industry Safety Handbook
During the Technical Forum, PTNPA delivered a preview of the newest sections included in its Industry Handbook for Safe Processing of Nuts — traceability and food safety culture. The only nut industry food safety reference guide, the handbook is used for hands-on operating procedural guidance, company training, new employee onboarding and as a reference for regulatory agencies, as well as a source of real-time business solutions. Content includes food safety plans, process validation, allergen preventive controls, supply chain management, environmental monitoring and pathogens, food defence and intentional adulteration.
About the Peanut and Tree Nut Processors Association
The Peanut and Tree Nut Processors Association (PTNPA), established in 1939, is composed of leading nut industry companies, representatives and solution providers, ranging from international household brands to fourth-generation family-owned businesses. The organization exists to advance the nut industry through professional networks, advocacy and education for and on behalf of its members.
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