USPOULTRY will hold its annual Poultry Processor Workshop on May 20-21 in Greenville, S.C. This year’s program will focus on leadership and operational excellence, along with a U.S. Department of Agriculture Food Safety and Inspection Service update and discussions on retained water and overall operational efficiencies, including preventive maintenance and the use of data analytics to enhance plant performance. The program will also address packaging considerations, including producer responsibility and sustainability.

Additional topics include sanitation and bio-mapping practices, and updates on automation, including the latest innovations and the role of artificial intelligence in processing plants, will be discussed. There will also be a safety overview and ammonia update, along with sessions on Salmonella interventions, including the use of phages and UV lighting, perspectives from a researcher in the field and discussions on shelf-life extenders.

“This workshop brings together the practical insights and strategies processors need to stay competitive in today’s environment,” said Matthew Wood, senior manager of research and development at Butterball and planning committee chair. “From operational efficiencies and automation to food safety and workforce considerations, attendees will gain actionable takeaways they can implement immediately in their operations.”  

The agenda was developed by a program committee of plant managers and food safety and quality assurance professionals that includes Corbett Kloster, Fieldale Farms Corporation; Dawn Lynch, House of Raeford Farms Inc.; Steve Snyder, Claxton Poultry Farms; Matthew Wood, Butterball and program planning committee chair; and Dr. Alicia Walker, Wayne-Sanderson Farms.

To view the full agenda, register for the Poultry Processor Workshop and reserve your hotel room, click here or visit uspoultry.org.