Aquatiq Food Forum to spotlight risk, accountability and innovation in global food safety

Food safety leaders from across industry, government and academia are set to gather in Norway this fall for the Aquatiq Food Forum, a two-day conference focused on risk, accountability and the future of global food systems.

The event, scheduled for Sept. 23 and 24 at the Clarion Hotel Oslo in Norway, will bring together experts to discuss topics ranging from pathogen control and regulatory changes to digitalization, sustainability and crisis preparedness.

Focus on accountability and leadership
Among the featured speakers is food safety attorney Bill Marler, founder of Marler Clark and publisher of Food Safety News, who is expected to address the consequences of foodborne illness outbreaks and the importance of corporate responsibility. His presentation, titled “Why It Is a Bad Idea to Poison Your Customers,” will draw on decades of legal experience representing victims of foodborne illness outbreaks.

Organizers say the forum is designed as a “leadership arena” for professionals seeking to strengthen food safety culture while adapting to a rapidly changing risk landscape. And that, “the importance of transparency, responsibility and learning from past incidents has never been greater.”

Regulation, technology and emerging risks
Sessions will include discussions on the European Union’s evolving regulatory framework, new packaging requirements, and the role of data and artificial intelligence in improving food safety outcomes. Speakers from major companies and organizations, including Nestlé, McDonald’s Nordic operations and the Norwegian Food Safety Authority, are scheduled to present.

Other topics on the agenda include emergency preparedness in food systems, ethical decision-making in business operations, and technological innovation in food production, such as automated processing and vertical farming.

Collaboration across the supply chain
The conference will also emphasize collaboration across the food supply chain, with organizers highlighting the need for shared standards and stronger communication between industry and regulators.

Aquatiq officials say the event aims to provide practical insights while fostering dialogue among stakeholders facing increasing complexity in global food production.

Early registration discounts for the forum are available through April 30, with additional details and the full program released online.