New Orleans, LA, United States — July 23, 2026 — Over 3,800 food safety professionals are expected to converge in New Orleans for the International Association of Food Protection (IAFP) Annual Meeting, opening on July 26. This global gathering, scheduled to run until July 29, will take place at the New Orleans Ernest N. Morial Convention Center, continuing a legacy of scientific exchange established in 1911.
Global Convergence for Food Protection
The International Association for Food Protection (IAFP) Annual Meeting stands as a premier event for the food safety community. The International Association for Food Protection, headquartered in Des Moines, Iowa, is the primary organizing body, dedicated to "Advancing Food Safety Worldwide®." This non-profit association boasts a membership ranging from 4,000 to 4,500 food safety professionals, representing 50 to 70 countries globally. The 2026 edition will bring together an estimated 2,000 to over 3,800 professionals from across six continents, with more than 140 exhibiting companies.
Advancing Technologies and Regulatory Standards
The Core Exhibit Sectors will showcase the newest developments in food protection. Attendees will explore Food Safety Technologies & Analytical Instruments, featuring rapid pathogen detection methods, predictive analytics, and environmental monitoring solutions. The Food Protection Systems & Regulatory Compliance area will highlight sanitation systems, food safety software, and consulting services, alongside discussions on digital traceability, artificial intelligence in food safety monitoring, and blockchain technology.
The Association provides an essential information network through its annual meeting and scientific journals such as the Journal of Food Protection and Food Protection Trends. These resources foster continuous interaction among food safety experts.
A Vital Forum for Industry Professionals
The IAFP Annual Meeting attracts a diverse audience, including quality control managers, regulatory inspectors, and plant managers. The event features a comprehensive educational program with expert-led sessions, research discussions, and specialized workshops. Key highlights will include Professional Development Group (PDG) meetings and an awards banquet, recognizing significant contributions to food safety.
Past editions demonstrate consistent growth; IAFP 2024 in Long Beach, California, welcomed over 3,500 attendees from 56 countries, while IAFP 2025 in Cleveland, Ohio, saw over 3,000 registered attendees representing 60 countries. Exhibitor numbers have also risen, with IAFP 2013 featuring a record 147 companies, IAFP 2024 hosting 153 companies, and IAFP 2025 showcasing representatives from 160 companies.
For registration and further information on the International Association of Food Protection (IAFP) Annual Meeting, visit https://www.foodprotection.org/annualmeeting/.