Articles by Bob Ferguson

This article previews upcoming sessions at the 2026 Food Safety Summit and ties in topical learnings from recent Food Safety Insights columns. 

This article further discusses the results of a survey of food processors worldwide regarding food safety culture and the key performance indicators (KPIs) used to measure daily operations and continuous improvement.

This article discusses the results of a survey of food processors worldwide regarding food safety culture and the preventive controls-aligned key performance indicators (KPIs) used to measure daily operations and continuous improvement.  

This article discusses trends and data for microbiological testing in the food and beverage sector, informed by data collection, surveys, and interviews with end-users at food processors, laboratories, manufacturers of test kits/instruments, and other companies in the global market.

There are many trends and happenings in food safety that will greatly affect the future of our markets. This article takes a look at the ones we are watching and the impact we think they will have.

The hygienic design, sanitation, and maintenance of food processing equipment and the surrounding production facilities are of paramount importance for an effective food safety sanitation program. In this column, we share additional information from processors about their programs, as well as the challenges and obstacles they face in keeping their equipment and facilities in the best condition to ensure food safety.

The hygienic design, sanitation, and maintenance of food processing equipment and the surrounding production facilities are of paramount importance for an effective food safety sanitation program. In this column, we share firsthand information from processors about their programs, as well as the challenges and obstacles they face in keeping their equipment and facilities in the best condition to ensure food safety.

Based on survey responses from food processors, part 2 of this column series explores industry perspectives on USDA's changing regulatory approach to Salmonella in raw poultry products and how it may affect processors' operations. The article also delves into processors' top priorities for their food safety programs in 2025. 

This column explores food processors’ comments on the potential impacts of important industry developments, including the establishment of FDA’s Human Foods Program and USDA’s developing new regulatory approach to Salmonella in poultry. The article also delves into processors' priorities for their food safety programs in 2025. 

A survey of 200 international food processors provides insight into which food safety technologies are being adopted and their effects on daily operations. Part 3 explores the impact and need for further development of testing technologies, focusing on responses from participants outside of North America.