The Opportunity – and Challenge – of Expanding Food Imports to the United States

Part of the Global Midwest Alliance Food Industry and Technology Series

Even though the United States remains mired in difficult economic circumstances, the opportunity to expand imports of food into the nation is growing.  The needs of different ethnic communities, the desire for fresh organic produce all year round, and even the simple demands of a growing population mean that the U.S. will have to rely even more on imported foods.

However, importing food is not easy.  Finding distributors and retail customers remain as obstacles.  Tariffs and customs still exist for many countries, even with the increasing numbers of Free Trade Agreements.  But probably the greatest upcoming challenge are the yet-to-be-introduced rules of the Food Safety Modernization Act.

This informative and interactive seminar, held in a central point for the distribution of food across the U.S. will bring together foreign exporters and domestic importers; buyers, purchasing  agents, and procurement management from a range of food processing companies; regulators at local, state, and federal levels; and a broad array of groups with an interest in expanding the international food trade.

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All participants at this event are also invited to visit the Institute for Food Safety and Health, hosted by our keynote speaker Robert E. Brackett , Ph.D., ice President and Director of the Institute.

To register for free go to: http://foodlabtour.eventbrite.com/.

The Institute for Food Safety and Health encompasses four primary Research Centers, including:

• The National Center for Food Safety and Technology
• The Center for Nutrition Research
• The Center for Processing Innovation
• The Center for Specialty Program

It is also the focus of food-related teaching at IIT.