CALL FOR SPEAKERS – 2026 WESTERN FOOD SAFETY CONFERENCE

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We are now accepting speaker proposals for the 2026 Western Food Safety Conference, taking place May 6–7 in beautiful Salinas, California. This respected regional conference is known for its strong focus on the grower, shipper, and processor community, and its commitment to advancing food safety through science-based practices, real-world innovation, and collaboration across the supply chain.

If you have groundbreaking insights, research findings, practical case studies, or innovative applications related to food safety, we invite you to submit a proposal. This is your opportunity to set yourself apart as a thought leader while supporting the continued advancement of food safety across the fresh produce industry.

We welcome proposals from food safety professionals representing:

• Grower-shippers and fresh-cut processors
• Food manufacturers and suppliers
• Academia and researchers
• Industry associations
• Regulatory agencies

Technology and solution providers (see vendor note below)

• Emerging pathogens and risk mitigation strategies
• Data-driven decision making and traceability (FSMA 204, EPCIS, digital tools)
• Innovation in wash water, sanitation, and field-level controls
• Audit readiness and regulatory updates
• Training, workforce development, and safety culture
• Practical applications of new technologies
• Lessons learned from outbreaks, recalls, or investigations

Water quality, environmental monitoring, and pre-harvest controls

The Western Food Safety Conference prioritizes educational content. While we do not accept sales-driven presentations, solution providers may participate in panel discussions if the session includes a diverse group of voices—particularly from growers, processors, and regulatory or academic partners—and the content is non-promotional in nature.

Please submit your proposal by October 15th using our (online submission form below) (or attach the submission form if applicable). Proposals should include:

• Session title and summary (150–250 words)
  
• Speaker name(s), title(s), and affiliation
  
• Learning objectives and key takeaways
  
• Format (solo, co-presented, or panel discussion)
  
  

All submissions will be reviewed by the Western Food Safety Conference Planning Committee. Final selection will be based on the proposal’s relevance to the grower–shipper–processor community, alignment with the conference theme, and overall contribution to the program. The committee will evaluate each submission for educational value, practical application, and industry need before making final decisions.

The deadline to submit a proposal is October 15, 2025.

For questions about session ideas or speaker eligibility, please email info@westernfoodsafetyconference.com

We look forward to reviewing your proposals and curating another high-impact, grower-focused program in 2026.