Washington, D.C. – Starting this Thursday, the Consumer Federation of America will host the Annual National Food Policy Conference in Washington, DC for the 42^nd year. The event, which will be held March 14^th & 15^th, explores timely issues facing consumers, the food industry and government.

The Deputy Commissioner for Food Policy & Response at the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, Frank Yiannas, will deliver the first keynote address of the conference, which will lay out  his priorities for reducing foodborne illnesses and further advancing FDA’s food safety modernization efforts.

Senator Debbie Stabenow will follow Mr. Yiannas’ address, with an update on food policy matters in the Senate, and Rep. Chellie Pingree will close the day with a perspective from the House.

The program on Friday will feature remarks from the USDA’s Deputy Under Secretary for Food Safety, Dr. Mindy Brashears, who will present her vision of how a science-based approach for Salmonella control, expanded pathogen testing and consumer education can lead to a reduction in foodborne illnesses.

For decades, the National Food Policy Conference has been a Washington institution and a unique collaboration between consumer advocates, the food industry and government. The conference is organized by the Consumer Federation of America and is a highly anticipated national gathering for those interested in agriculture, food and nutrition policy.

For more information click here. On-site registration begins at 7:30 a.m. Thursday.

Location: Renaissance Washington, DC Downtown Hotel, 999 Ninth St NW

Thursday: 8:00-5:00; Friday: 8:15-12:00