AMSA is pleased to announce a featured USDA/FSIS Update during the 79th Reciprocal Meat Conference (RMC) in Amarillo/Canyon, Texas on Wednesday, June 24. This session is sponsored by the AMSA Development Council. The session will bring together food safety leaders to discuss emerging research, modernization strategies, and the future direction of science-based food safety systems within the meat and poultry industries.

This timely session will provide attendees with insights into current regulatory priorities, collaborative research initiatives, and technological advancements shaping public health protection and industry innovation.

Building the Next Generation of Food Safety Systems

Mindy Brashears, Ph.D., Under Secretary for Food Safety, U.S. Department of Agriculture

Dr. Brashears will discuss the future of food safety systems and the research priorities needed to support a more modern, risk-based approach to public health. Her presentation will highlight emerging work on Salmonella and Listeria, including advances in quantification, pathogen characterization, data analytics, and collaborative research efforts that are helping shape the next generation of food safety policy and oversight.

Implementing Our Strategy for Food Safety

Justin Ransom, Ph.D., Administrator, U.S. Department of Agriculture Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS)

Dr. Ransom will discuss how FSIS is implementing its three-pillar strategy:  Strong People, Smart Systems, and Safe Food,  across the agency’s inspection and oversight activities. His presentation will highlight workforce investments, emerging technology applications, and how science-based decision-making is guiding modernization efforts that protect public health while supporting innovation across the meat and poultry industries.

The AMSA Reciprocal Meat Conference remains one of the premier educational and networking events for meat science professionals, students, and industry leaders from across the globe. The USDA/FSIS Update session is expected to provide valuable perspective on the evolving landscape of food safety research, policy, and implementation. To find out more please visit www.meatscience.org/rmc.