Food Safety Guidelines for Indoor Farming: Risk Assessment and Risk Management
2026-08-20 14:00 - 18:30 (Asia/Krasnoyarsk) | Ontario
Cultivating plants within a contained environment, thereby protected from the elements, has a long history. Previously, indoor farming meant using greenhouses to increase productivity and extending growing seasons. The advent of enabling technologies such as LED lighting, energy management, robotics, and environmental control systems has enabled indoor farming to become economically viable for staple crop production. This has led to an increase in indoor farming facilities across the globe to enhance food production through local supply that is more protected against extreme weather events compared to conventional farming, thereby enhancing food security. There is also the perception that indoor farmed crops are protected from contamination from pathogens (e.g. Salmonella, toxigenic Escherichia coli) and chemical hazards, such as excessive pesticide residues, by being within a contained environment. However, several outbreaks and recalls have been associated with indoor farmed crops. Consequently, there is a need for a greater understanding of the sources of contamination and what risk management options are available to growers. To address this need, the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) has been developing a publication on the food safety insights for various indoor farming systems. The first part of the presentation will provide an overview of the FAO mission and how the publication has been prepared. The second part of the presentation will describe the different elements and systems encompassed under the indoor farming umbrella. The sources of contamination via the different inputs within farming operations will be described along with the fate of pathogens (STEC, Salmonella, and Listeria monocytogenes) when introduced on seed, growth substrate, and irrigation water. Interventions will be outlined to reduce contamination while maintaining plant growth performance and quality.

Digital Transformation in Food Production
2026-09-17 08:00 - 11:30 | Ontario
Digital transformation in food production is revolutionizing the industry by integrating advanced technologies such as automation, IoT, and data analytics to enhance efficiency, traceability, and compliance with regulatory standards. This evolution streamlines processes, reduces waste, and enables proactive quality management by leveraging real-time insights and predictive analytics to address potential issues before they escalate. Ultimately, digital transformation not only optimizes production but also reinforces food safety and quality, building greater consumer trust and positioning industry leaders to meet the evolving challenges of today’s competitive marketplace.

First Annual Food Safety And Quality Conference
2026-09-25 12:00 - 17:30 | Ontario
The First Annual Food Safety and Quality Conference brings together industry professionals, researchers, and decision-makers to explore the evolving landscape of food safety, regulatory compliance, and quality assurance in today’s global food system. This event is dedicated to addressing the most pressing challenges facing the food industry, including food safety laws, risk management, traceability, and the impact of emerging technologies on maintaining high standards of quality and hygiene across the supply chain.
Throughout the conference, participants engage in insightful discussions on digital transformation in the food sector, data-driven decision-making, and modern strategies for improving operational efficiency and regulatory compliance. Key topics also include the role of automation, cloud-based systems, and analytics in strengthening food safety practices and ensuring consistent product quality. By bringing together experts and innovators, the conference serves as a platform for knowledge sharing, collaboration, and the advancement of safer, more resilient food systems.

Food Safety Laws And Responsibilities
2026-10-02 09:00 - 11:30 | Cremco Hall, 3403 American Dr, Mississauga, Mississauga, Ontario, L4V 1T4, Canada
In today’s food industry, digital transformation is key to building high-performing organizations. This talk explores how embracing modern technology and data-driven strategies can enhance productivity, foster collaboration, and improve adaptability in a fast-changing market. With new digital tools, food businesses can streamline operations and respond quickly to shifting consumer demands and supply chain challenges.By leveraging innovations like data analytics, cloud platforms, and automation, organizations can make informed decisions and cultivate a culture of continuous improvement. Attendees will discover how a digital-first approach not only optimizes day-to-day processes but also sparks innovation across teams. The talk will highlight real-world examples of technology empowering food industry professionals to boost efficiency, ensure quality, and drive sustainable growth.
