The International Association for Food Protection (IAFP) held its conference as a hybrid event for the first time this year. The three-day meeting took place July 18–21, 2021, in Phoenix, and more than 2,600 registered in-person and attended virtually, representing 55 countries, 48 states (including Washington, D.C.), and 6 Canadian provinces.

The General Session was opened virtually on July 18, 2021, due to travel restrictions, and President Roger Cook hosted the session before turning the program over to Dr. Kali Kniel, IAFP past president, who recognized those who made the meeting possible. Dr. Ruth Petran, IAFP president-elect, then introduced this year's Ivan Parkin lecture, presented by Dr. Robert Gravani, professor emeritus of food science, Cornell University, who spoke on "It's All About People, Isn't it?"

The IAFP 2021 program featured more than 900 presentations, most of which are recorded and available to all registered attendees. Representatives from 111 companies showcased equipment and innovations in food safety services through in-person, virtual, and hybrid presentations in the Exhibit Hall.

Monday’s agenda included a “U.S. Regulatory Update on Food Safety,” featuring Sandra Eskin with the U.S. Department of Agriculture, and Frank Yiannas with the U.S. Food and Drug Administration. 

On Wednesday afternoon, the John H. Silliker lecture featured Dr. Barbara J. Masters, vice president, regulatory policy, food and agriculture, Tyson Foods, Inc., Washington, D.C. Dr. Masters presented “We All are Working on the Same Puzzle.”

Wednesday night’s Awards Banquet honored excellence in food safety by recognizing 31 individuals and organizations. The meeting concluded with the gavel presentation to incoming president, Dr. Ruth Petran, senior food safety advisor, The Acheson Group and Ruth Petran Consulting, LLC, Eagan, Minnesota.