Food Safety in the Public Spotlight

What an exciting time to serve as the President of FAFP!

The recent signing of the Food Safety Modernization Act represents the first major overhaul of the food safety infrastructure in the USA since 1938, and keeps Food Safety in the public spotlight.  The consequences and changes due to this legislation for Florida remain to be seen, but I have no doubt that Members of FAFP will continue to actively ensure a safe food supply for our citizens and visitors.

Our parent organization, the International Association of Food Protection (IAFP), celebrates its 100th anniversary in 2011.  A number of exciting events are planned, and I’m sure you’re as excited as I am to see how FAFP can be a part of them.

Over the course of 2011, I hope to maintain FAFPs position as the premier Food Safety Association in the State and one of the best affiliates of IAFP.  We continue to have an outstanding Executive Team and Board of Directors, representing our diverse membership including representatives from academia, government and industry.  Our interaction with our student members is growing, something I see continuing into the future.

As we look forward to 2011, it is important to also look back.  In 1937, the  editorial in  the first publication of IAPF, the Journal of Milk Technology stated “…would not exist if it had not been for the devoted and intelligent work of inspectors in the past… Without their work, our present achievements would be impossible.  They founded and built.” In 2010 the FAFP Executive Team and Board of Directors underwent tremendous changes and turnovers.  I would like to take the opportunity to thank our Past President, Greg Orman, and all the other Board Members who have recently served FAFP.  Your efforts are appreciated and will not be forgotten!

We are working hard to find new and innovated ways to continue information exchange between Food Safety Professionals.  Look for the continued standards of a Newsletter and Educational Luncheons throughout the state, focusing on timely and hot topics, and  we will take the Luncheon idea virtual and make our first attempt at providing information via a webinar.  Our group will remain active on Linked In, and watch for a new website platform this year.

Our 2011 Annual Educational Conference is right around the corner.  A little later than previous years, it will be held at the South Seas Plantation in Captiva Island, June 1-3.  We will have a host of experts presenting on a variety of relevant and opportune topics and plans for the legendary entertainment are underway; as always this will be an event you don’t want to miss.

I hope to see every member of FAFP over the course of 2011, and encourage you all to participate in our educational events.  If you have any suggestions, comments, questions or concerns related to FAFP, please do not hesitate to contact me.

Regards,

Michelle Danyluk, President
Florida Association for Food Protection