Leading international and South African experts will gather in Johannesburg on 2–3 June 2026 for the highly anticipated Food Safety Summit^TM 2026, a premier event focused on advancing food safety through stronger alignment between science, policy, and industry practice.

Held under the theme “Food Safety: Aligning Science, Policy and Industry Practice,” the Summit will bring together regulators, manufacturers, retailers, laboratories, academics, consultants, and service providers for two days of high-level engagement and practical insight.

Hosted by Prof Lucia Anelich, the Summit programme addresses some of the most urgent issues facing the food sector today, including crisis communication, foodborne pathogens, food fraud, process control, innovation, certification systems, and national food safety governance.

Day One opens with a keynote on Crisis Communication: The Front Line of Protecting and Enhancing Reputation, followed by a panel discussion on reputation management during food safety incidents. Scientific sessions will then explore critical topics such as Salmonella in food, lessons from listeriosis outbreaks, and the real sources of foodborne illness. The afternoon programme turns to food fraud, examining whether industry is winning the battle and unpacking South African case studies. The day concludes with a panel discussion on FSSC 22000 Version 7, due to be released in May.

Day Two features a special ICMSF Mini Workshop on process control and sampling, with internationally recognised speakers covering data interpretation, verification, and microbiological testing strategies.

Innovation sessions will address onboarding culture, hygienic design, business performance and how virtual reality kitchen induction training is transforming food safety, hygiene, and OHS readiness by preparing new staff before their first day on site.

A major highlight of the Summit will be the high-level strategic panel discussion: From Fragmentation to Fit-for-Purpose Food Safety Governance – The South African Case, examining how South Africa can strengthen national food safety systems through better coordination, leadership, and accountability.

“The Food Safety Summit is designed to move beyond theory and into action by bringing world-class expertise together with practical industry realities,” said Prof Lucia Anelich. “Strong food safety systems are built when science, governance, and operational excellence work together.”

The Summit will also feature a dynamic exhibition area, sponsor showcases, networking opportunities, and engagement with leading solution providers across the food value chain.

With food safety increasingly linked to consumer trust, business resilience, public health, and trade competitiveness, the 2026 Food Safety Summit^TM is expected to attract delegates from across Southern Africa and beyond.

Registration

Registration is open: https://foodsafetysummit.co.za/registration-fees-payment-copy/ .For  sponsorship or exhibition enquiries, contact Catherine at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

About the Food Safety Summit^TM

The Food Safety Summit is owned by Prof Lucia Anelich and is a leading annual platform dedicated to advancing food safety excellence through knowledge-sharing, collaboration, and practical leadership across the food sector.

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