The event will have a particular focus on how the developments can help manage food safety risks with topics such as gut health, microbiome, cybersecurity and the use of blockchain, set to be discussed.
Among the keynote speakers will be Professor Ian Charles, director of Quadram Institute, who will talk about the importance of studying bacterial survival, and Rob Chester, managing director of Food Safety, NSF.
“Despite concerted efforts over the years, food safety issues remain,” said Chester. “Many people consider technology will bring the answers that the industry needs. Broadly I feel that is true, however there is a need to increase the speed at which the food industry develops these solutions.”
Other speakers include:
Professor Seamus Fanning, Director of the UCD Centre for Food Safety
John Graydon, Portfolio Development Executive, Siemens
James Flynn, Founder and CTO, Primority Ltd
James Stafford, Market Development Director, Avery Dennison
Professor Bob Stevens, Professor of Smart Materials and Devices, Nottingham Trent University
Vincent Doumeizel, Vice President, Food & Drink, Lloyds Register
Professor Lisa Jack, Professor in Accounting, University of Portsmouth, who will chair the event, said "The technologies to combat the risks around food safety are developing at a rapid rate.
"IFST have put together an excellent panel of experts to bring us up to date on the challenges and the solutions on the horizon. I am greatly looking forward to being the chair for this conference".