The 36th Annual
FOOD LABEL CONFERENCE
June 2 - 5, 2024

Join PLC in Washington DC June 2 - 5th to make sure you are current on new and evolving regulations and industry trends. Keynote speakers and complete breakout sessions will be curated to bring key government officials, legal experts, and food industry leaders together to help you solve your labeling and compliance challenges. Last year we had 9 agencies present, and over 50 government and industry experts speaking on over 40 different labeling topics!

Hear from government regulators, learn from industry experts and attorneys, get up-to-speed on the latest rule-making, keep up with trends, and network with old friends and new colleagues. Building knowledge and finding solutions are forefront in this collaborative and discussion-oriented format.

You can't afford to miss this 2024 Food Label Conference, all while enjoying Washington DC in June!

BENEFITS
  • USDA and industry experts' take on government intent, regulation policies and enforcement
  • In-depth, hands-on, interactive breakout sessions on a wide variety of specialized topics
  • Virtual 'Continuing Conference' sessions to keep you updated on the latest throughout the year
  • Valuable networking opportunities with regulators, experts, private label brands and peers
  • Optional training on USDA & FDA labeling, claims, international labeling and more
  • Sightseeing and other entertainment in optional evening programs, located in the heart of DC
  • Renew old friendships and make new ones!

What Our Attendees Say

I can’t recommend coming to this conference enough - whether you’re early in your career, mid-career, or late career, because there’s always something new to learn . . .  USDA employees and Prime Label employees can get back to you, and that’s fantastic.
Karen Creswick
Compliance & Labeling Specialist - JMH International
Prime Label is the one source of truth, so I think it’s really important to attend a conference like PLC’s.
Marriott Winchester
President of ManageArtworks USA
It’s not only informative [for] the annual updates, ... the value add that information provides, and the solice you get from speaking directly with the USDA or FDA, ... but it’s really the comradery and the relationships you establish with all the other people that have like questions ... you gain the understanding that everyone is suffering from the same uncertainty and you know that you can actually reach out to not only FSIS but your fellow friends that have the same issues.
Seth Dodds
Regulatory Specialist - Plumrose
I am really excited to be here and to be able to geek out on regulatory.
Elaine Chao
Regulatory Affairs Technologist - Kagome
This conference provides General Sessions with expertise from both Regulators and the Food Industry. In addition, individually tailored small sessions on various issues are explored in detail. The conference has always been a valuable tool for training staff and for interactions with other industry members.
Lamar Hendricks
Director of Regulatory Compliance and Food Safety - Sara Lee Corporation (Retired)
This conference is excellent for networking ...[and] keeping up on the administrative rulings that are coming out, as well as final rules and proposed rules.
Justin Crews
Regulatory and Compliance Manager - Wellshire Farms
I decided to attend the Prime Label Conference this year for the first time because ... I really wanted to get an insight in how companies are thinking through some of the trending regulatory issues facing the food industry today. It is giving me some ideas about how I am going to work with my clients going forward.
Brain P. Sylvester
Covington & Burling LLP

ATTENDEE TITLES

REPRESENTATIVE COMPANIES

Manager of Regulatory Affairs
Labeling Specialist
Registered Dietitian
Food Scientist
Regulatory & Documentation Specialist
Director - Quality and Food Safety
Specification & Compliance Manager
Senior Counsel
Research and Development
Director Marketing/New Products
CEO/ President
QA Supervisor
HACCP and Labeling Coordinator  
Technical Services Manager   
Marketing Manager    
Packaging and Compliance Specialist  
Document  Management Specialist
Director - Technical Services    
Plant Operations Manager    
Director of Food Labeling
Director of Food Safety and Quality
Staff Attorney    
Managing Partner
Director - Foods and  Supplements    
Sr. VP Business Development &  Finance
Product Development Manager
Scientific & Regulatory Affairs Director
Nutrition & Regulatory Specialist

Senior Director - Nutrition
Food Safety Manager

Ahold Delhaize
Albertsons/Safeway
Alston & Bird LLP
Amazon.com    
Ambassador Meat
American Soy Prod.
Amin Talati Wasser.
Applegate
At Last Gourmet
Aunt Millie's Bakeries
Bar-S Foods a Sigma
Bell & Evans
Bellisio Foods 
Bonduelle Fresh
Brakebush Brothers
Burke Corporation 
Campbell Soup
Cargill 
Chelten house
CJ Foods
CK Development Serv.
Clemens Food group
Columbus Craft meats
Cooper Farms 
Covington & Burling
CTI Foods
Custom Culinary 
Custom Made Meals
Direct Plus Deli Group
Don Lee Farms 
Eddy Foods
FDA
FTC
Flagstone Foods
FONA International
FSIS/ USDA
FoodMinds

FoodNavigator-USA
Foodspace Tech.
FoodTrition Solutions
Fresh Mark, Inc.
Gamay Food Ing.
General Mills 
Gerber Poultry
Godshall's Meats
Great Lakes Cheese
Greenleaf Foods
Griffith Foods
H-E-B
Harry and David
Home Market Foods
Hy-Vee Fresh Comm.
IHS Markit
Illes Seasonings
Indiana Packers Corp.
Iowa Meat & Poultry Inspection Bureau
John Soules Foods
Johnsonville
JPG Resources
JSL Foods, Inc.
JTM Food Group
Kellogg Company 
Kerry
Keuirg/Dr. Pepper
Kiolbassa Provision
Kraft Heinz 
Krogers 
Label Compliance Sol.
Pilgrim's Pride Co.
Pillers Fine Foods
Plenus Group, Inc.
Pulmuone USA
Label Insight

Publix Super Markets
Lamb Weston
Litehouse Inc.
LKK (USA) Foods
Lopez Foods, Inc.
LPDS/ USDA
Lyons Magnus
Maple Leaf Farms 
McCain Foods
McDonald's
Medifast
Meijer
Michael Foods
Mistica Foods LLC
Monogram Foods
Morinaga America
Nardone Bros Baking
Nation Pizza & Foods
NOP / USDA
Nestle 
New Seasons Market
Newly Weds Foods 
NAMI 
NSF International
Oberto Brands 
Orca Bay Foods
OSI Group, LLC
Pacific Inter. Marketing
Palermo's Pizza
Patterson TMP
Peapod Digital Labs
Peco Foods, Inc.
Pederson's Natural
Rembrandt Foods
Renaissance Food Grp
Request Foods, Inc.
Riba Foods

Reser's Fine Foods 
Rich Chicks
Richelieu Foods, Inc.
Russ Davis Wholesale
Sanderson Farms 
Saratoga Food
Sargento Foods 
Seaboard Foods 
Sigma Foods
Simmons Prep. Food
SK Food Group
Smithfield
Sovos Brands
Specialty Foods Group
Starbucks Coffee
Sun-Maid
Sweet Candy Co.
Swift Prepared Foods
Sysco
Tall Tree Foods
Target 
Taylor Farms 
TechLink International
TH Foods
Classic Jerky Co.
The Original Cakerie
The Suter Company 
Trader Joe's
TreeHouse Foods
US Foods
Vanee Foods
Walgreens
Walmart
Wayne Farms 
WG Provisions
World Variety Produce
Whole Foods Market 

AGENDA

Agenda

Add-On Training *
Sunday June 2

8:00 am - 9:00 am

9:00 am - 4:00 pm

9:00 am - 4:00 pm
9:00 am - 4:00 pm
9:00 am - 4:00 pm

4:30 pm - 6:00 pm
6:15 pm - 9:00 pm

Seminar Registration

USDA Labeling Basics ** 
FDA Labeling Basics **
Canadian Labeling **
School Lunch (CN) Labeling **

Main Conference Registration
Dinner Cruise of Washington DC *

* sessions subject to change
** optional; additional fees apply

Main Conference Day 1 *
Monday June 3

7:30 am - 8:30 am

8:30 am – 8:40 am
 
8:40 am - 9:30 am
9:30 am – 10:20 am 
10:40 am - 11:30 pm
11:30 am - 12:20 pm 
Lunch
1:30 pm - 2:20 pm 
2:30 pm - 3:20 pm 
3:30 pm - 4:20 pm

4:30 pm - 6:30 pm
6:30 pm - 8:30 pm

Main Conference Registration

Introductions & Welcome
TBD
FDA Regulatory Update *
TBD
TBD
Networking Topic Tables
Breakout Session 1
Breakout Session 2
Breakout Session 3

Cocktail Networking Reception
Distinctive Dining *

Main Conference Day 2 *
Tuesday June 4

8:00 am - 8:30 am

8:30 am – 9:20 am
9:20 am – 10:20 am
 
10:40 am- 11:30 am
11:30 am - 12:20 pm

Lunch
1:30 pm - 2:20 pm 
2:30 pm - 3:20 pm 

Main Conference Registration

TBD
‍USDA Labeling Policy Update
Legal Perspectives on the Next Year *
Breakout Session 4

Networking Topic Tables
Breakout Session 5
Breakout Session 6

Add-On Training
Wednesday June 5

8:00 am - 3:00 pm
8:00 am - 11:00 am
8:00 am - 3:00 pm
8:00 am - 11:00 am
 

Continuing Conference*

Keeping the best of our recent conferences, we will have four unique 'Continuing Conference' sessions to keep you updated on the latest  throughout the year.

September 2024, November 2024, January 2025, March 2025


* sessions subject to change
** optional; additional fees apply

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Tracks

Nutrition

FDA

USDA

Marketing

Expert

This year we have 5 tracks to help guide your conference and training experience. If you are new to Regulatory, choose between FDA or USDA tracks. Dietitians and nutrition specialists will find our Nutrition track appropriate, while Product Marketing managers and Graphics Design professionals will want to sign up for the Marketing track. Our final track - for Experts - is designed to be a la carte for maximum customization.
COMING SOON - See below for last year's breakout topics. If you are interested in speaking at this year's event, or would like to suggest a new topic for the upcoming year, please contact Conference@primelabel.com

Main Conference

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The Food Label Conference brings together government policy makers and industry experts in a collaborative exchange of trends, ideas and best practices.  Our 7 General Sessions will take place over 2 half-day, live sessions on June 5 - 6, 2023. These sessions will highlight current and former government officials giving insight into government priorities and enforcement actions for the upcoming year. This event will also feature over 30 different different Breakout Sessions on specialized subjects to choose from, offering sessions for in-depth expertise-exchange and discussion.

Below is a list of planned preliminary breakout sessions:

General Sessions

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The Food Label Conference brings together government policy makers and industry experts in a collaborative exchange of trends, ideas and best practices.  Our 7 general sessions will take place over 2 half-day, live sessions on June 3-4, 2024. These sessions will highlight current and former government officials giving insight into government priorities and enforcement actions for the upcoming year.

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FDA Regulatory Update *

Speaker TBD
Join us for a critical agency update of the latest FDA guidances, proposed rules, implementation, and food program reorganization. Hear recent updates on guidance statements, proposed rules, and FASTER Act implementation.

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USDA Labeling Policy Update *

Jeff Canavan, Labeling and Program Delivery Staff, FSIS, USDA
A key update from the Labeling and Program Delivery Staff (LPDS) on the new nutrition rule, expansion of generic label approval along with other policy changes, critical insights, and what to expect in the year ahead. Dialog with the labeling regulators for guidance on your most challenging labeling issues.

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Legal Perspective: Updates and Predictions for the Next Year *

Robert Hibbert, Wiley Rein LLP
Tony Pavel, Perfect Day Foods
Two leading DC legal minds share their perspective on expected regulatory changes, emerging trends and risks, food standard controversies, and marketplace trends and technologies.

* sessions subject to change

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COMING SOON - See Last Year's Breakout Sessions:

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Added Sugar Trends and Case Studies

Lisa Weller Ashton, Food Regulatory Consultant
Tracks: Nutrition, Expert
 
The definition of Added Sugar has been vastly debated since the publication of FDA’s final rule for nutrition labeling. Since then, the agency has continued to release additional guidance to facilitate implementation of the rules. This session will use examples and case studies to explain the FDA’s definition of Added Sugars, propose best practices for troubleshooting data collection, and highlight strategies for optimizing nutrition facts panel sugar declarations.

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Bioengineered Labeling (NBFDS) Update

Alexandria Fischer, Food Disclosure and Labeling Division, USDA AMS
Tracks: FDA, USDA, Expert
 
With mandatory bioengineered disclosure in place now for a full year, industry has begun to standardize best practices for labeling. This session will cover any updates and nuances to the specifics of the new rule, the options for disclosing BE status and plans for USDA enforcement.

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Canadian Labeling

Michelle Anstey, NSF International
Tracks: Expert
 
Understand new Canadian nutrition and ingredient labeling regulations and learn how they differ from labeling in the US, including the Front-of-Package symbol, Nutrition Facts Table and ingredient list formats, and allergen declarations. Discuss the subtleties of formulating products for Canada and some of the special issues that apply. Understand what resources are available to you to ensure your Canadian labels are compliant.

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Cannabis and CBD in Food Products

Jonathan Havens, Saul Ewing Arnstein & Lehr LLP
Tracks: FDA, USDA, Marketing, Expert
 
Cannabidiol (CBD) remains in the news, especially since the U.S. Food and Drug Administration’s (FDA or the Agency) January 26th announcement that existing regulatory frameworks for foods and supplements are not appropriate for CBD, and that the Agency will work with Congress on a path forward.  Despite this, CBD continues to be used in foods and supplements. Find out why CBD-infused products could hold both promise and peril, what we know about the science behind the hype, and what remains to be seen. Learn about the confusing legal and regulatory framework surrounding CBD, when and how the federal landscape in this area might change, and the rules of the road about adding it to food products.

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Carbon Labeling

Amaru Sanchez, Wiley Rein LLP
Tracks: FDA, USDA, Marketing, Expert
 
Consumers and investors continue to show increasing interest in environmental and sustainability commitments by companies, and the food industry has responded in kind. However, there are few widely accepted industry standards for many environmental claims such as “carbon offset”, “carbon neutral”, and “sustainable,” making these claims an increasingly frequent source of litigation by consumers, interest groups, and regulatory agencies. In this breakout session, the presenter will cover topics such as environmental claims (e.g., carbon offset, sustainable, climate-friendly) as well as the relevant regulatory agencies (e.g., FTC, SEC, FDA, USDA, etc.) involved. Additionally, the presenter will explore the role of certification bodies in this space and relevant scenarios to identify and avoid common pitfalls when making environmental claims.

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Child Nutrition (School Lunch) Labeling Overview

Trish Tung-Tayman, USDA Child Nutrition (CN) Labeling Program Office, USDA-AMS
Tracks: Nutrition, FDA, USDA, Expert
 
Discover the ins and outs of Child Nutrition labeling from the administrators themselves. Explore how CN labeling works and its advantages. Learn about the Agricultural Marketing Service (AMS) quality control program and the CN label application process. Find out where to obtain information and discuss some frequently asked questions.

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Clean Labeling

Kantha Shelke, Corvus Blue LLC
Tracks: FDA, USDA, Marketing, Expert
 
There is no regulatory definition for clean labeling. But the truth is, consumer demand for easy-to-understand ingredient statements and trustworthy labels isn't going anywhere. When it comes to meeting what consumers want, it is a lot easier said than done. This session will cover the technical realities associated with the concept of a “clean” label from an R&D and Regulatory perspective.

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Date Coding

Janis Hochstetler, Iowa Meat & Poultry Inspection Bureau
Tracks: FDA, USDA, Expert

What does that EXP 1/31/2025 really mean on that can of soup?   This session will examine Terms, Consumer Expectations, Industry Standards, FDA and USDA Regulatory Requirements, Safety vs Quality, Shelf Life Studies and Resources all relating to food code dating.

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Dietary Supplement Labeling Nuances

Erin Taraborrelli, Source Nutraceutical, Inc.
Tracks: Nutrition, Expert
 
The dietary supplement market is constantly growing and more and more companies are moving into this space. Dietary supplement labeling differs from that of conventional food labeling in what you must include, the claims that are available to you, and other responsibilities for the brand owner. It is In this breakout session we will provide an overview of the regulatory requirements, challenges and common pitfalls in dietary supplement labeling, substantiation and the FDA and FTC’s role in regulating the dietary supplement industry.

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FDA Claims Best Practices/ Workshop

Katy Enright, Mars-Wrigley
Tracks: FDA, Marketing, Expert
 
Claims Workshop - Join this interactive session to test your knowledge about claims trending in the market and evaluate claim acceptability in a fun way. Bring your smartphone to participate anonymously and enjoy a session without slides!

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FDA Updates: Healthy Claim and FOP Labeling

Mason Weeda, OFW Law
Tracks: FDA, Marketing, Expert
 
In September 2022 FDA proposed to update the definition of “healthy.” Initially set in 1994, FDA found the current definition does not align with current nutrition science, federal dietary guidelines, and the updated nutrition facts label. This session covers the history of the “healthy” definition; what the proposed rule aims to accomplish; the impact this will have on food labeling; FDA’s next steps; FDA’s related research on a voluntary “healthy” symbol; and FDA’s research on a mandatory “front of pack” (FOP) labeling system.

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Flavor Labeling Trends

Lisa Cummins, McCormick Flavor Solutions | McCormick FONA
Tracks: FDA, Marketing, Expert
 
Flavor labeling tops the charts as one of the most common complicated aspects of product labeling. This session will cover flavor descriptors and the laws governing labeling and specific situations including food allergens, flavoring agents, ingredient classifications, flavor categories, organic, kosher and halal.

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FTC Advertising & Claims

Liz Sanger, Federal Trade Commission
‍Tracks: FDA, USDA, Marketing, Expert
 
Learn about the FTC rules on advertising and how they apply to your food package artwork and claims. Find out what the FTC's enforcement priorities are and learn the subtleties of online marketing and social media.

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Geographic Claims

Jesse Zuehlke, Prime Label Consultants
Tracks: FDA, USDA, Marketing, Expert
Labeling product with origin claims, geographic statements and imagery, or even references to culinary styles can be complex. This session will breakdown the various requirements from FTC and FDA, and recently proposed rulemaking from USDA. Learn important strategies for labeling origin and geographic claims, and understand key risks to watch out for.

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Legal Risks: Demand Letters and Litigation Trends

Ivan Wasserman, Amin Talati Wasserman
Tracks: FDA, Marketing, Expert
 
Plaintiff litigation and demand letters are becoming one of the primary risks to consider in developing product marketing strategies. Learn how to navigate the shark tank with this discussion of the current litigation landscape, how to best protect your company, and what to do if when your product becomes a target.

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Mandatory COOL Labeling

Sonja Jones, Food Disclosure and Labeling Division, USDA-AMS
Tracks: FDA, USDA, Marketing, Expert
 
Country of Origin Labeling is managed by the Food Disclosure and Labeling Division of AMS USDA, and required for retail labeling of a range of raw agricultural commodities. Learn how to determine if your products are covered and the labeling requirements, along with common FAQs to help fully implement your labeling strategy.

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Mexican Labeling

Phil Daniel & Fabiola Montero, TechLink International
Tracks: Expert
 
All Mexican labels were required to meet the latest food labeling requirements by 2021. We will discuss this substantial change and what shifted as a result of the new standard.

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Natural Labeling Complexities

Eve Pelonis, Keller and Heckman LLP
Tracks: FDA, USDA, Marketing, Expert
 
Understand the ins and outs of Natural labeling. Explore the differences between FDA and USDA definitions of “Natural”. Discuss the impact on retail, restaurants and customer perception, and explore the pros and cons of this contentious claim.

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NFP Calculations: Serving Sizes, DVs & Rounding Nuances

Fred Mosher & Michelle Liang, Prime Label Consultants
Tracks: Nutrition, FDA, USDA, Expert
 
Explore the integrity of the Nutrition Panel by understanding the differences between calculated and analytical methods of producing nutrient data. Discuss the various sources of nutrient data and how to apply them to determine serving size and daily values. Understand the nuances of FDA rounding rules. Includes a brief introduction to Prime Label’s EZ FormⓇ food labeling software.

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Nutrient Content Claims

Caitlin Diederich, Prime Label Consultants
Tracks: Nutrition, Marketing

Learn about FDA and USDA requirements for expressed and implied claims including common call-outs such as Low Calorie, Low Fat, No Added Sugar and High Protein. Explore relative claims and front of pack nutrient claims and the subtleties of their different requirements.

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Organic Labeling Update and Q&A

Erin Healy, USDA AMS National Organic Program
Tracks: FDA, USDA, Marketing, Expert
 
2023 marks what many are calling the most significant new rulemaking from USDA on the Organic Program since its inception. Learn about recently-published rules, including Strengthening Organic Enforcement, and how the changes may impact your own organic operations and labels.

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Plant-Based and Substitute Proteins: Naming and Regulatory

Brian P. Sylvester & Jessica O'Connell, Covington & Burling LLP
Tracks: FDA, Expert

As plant-based foods continue to gain ground in the U.S. marketplace, questions around lawful product naming and claims have captured the interest of FDA, stakeholders and Congress culminating most recently in FDA's publication of its Draft Guidance on plant-based milk alternatives, a particularly popular category of plant-based foods.  This session will cover FDA's Draft Guidance, providing the legal POV on insights not just for plant-based milks, but more broadly for understanding how FDA will approach the issue of naming of plant-based alternatives more generally.  We will also consider this draft guidance in the broader context of consumer scrutiny and litigation and share our views on best practices for managing risk for a range of plant-based foods and alternative protein products.

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Proposition 65

Michael Geibelson, Robins Kaplan LLP
Tracks: Expert

For products sold in the state of California, compliance with the Safe Drinking Water and Toxic Enforcement Act of 1986, or Proposition 65, is essential to mitigate litigation risk. Come and learn the important trends in claims, developments in court decisions and the clear and reasonable warnings requirements, and how your food or packaging and exposure to class action litigation may be impacted.

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Q&A on FDA Compliance

Jesse Zuehlke, Caitlin Diederich & Marissa Hagedorn, Prime Label Consultants
Tracks: Nutrition, FDA

Find out the answers to those nagging questions about your FDA labels. From product naming to claims and allergens, bring your specific questions to be answered by a PLC Consultant.

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Q&A on USDA Compliance

Emily Hendricks, Prime Label Consultants
Tracks: Nutrition, USDA

Explore the ins and outs of USDA labeling - such as product names and qualifiers; undefined RACC and nutrient claims; negative, uncured, organic and natural claims. Bring your specific questions on the subtleties of labeling to our industry and PLC experts.

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Sustainability & Environmental Marketing Claims

Sam Jockel & Rachel Lowe, Alston & Bird
Tracks: FDA, USDA, Marketing, Expert

Environmental claims are now ubiquitous in the marketplace and we’ve all seen a marked increase in litigation.  Marketers are facing risk from regulators, NGOs, consumer class action attorneys, and competitors, even when they have vetted their sustainability-related product labeling and advertising.  Marketers are also bracing for an update to FTC’s Green Guides governing environmental marketing claims.  This session will cover regulatory and litigation developments, including recent court rulings and provide insights on risk mitigation.

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USDA Animal Production, Raising & Grading Claims

Emily Hendricks, Prime Label Consultants
Tracks: USDA, Marketing, Expert
Discuss the complexity of Animal Production and Breed Raising claims such as Cage-Free Poultry, Free-Range, No Added Hormones or Antibiotics, Humanely Raised, Certified Angus and others. Find out the latest in USDA grading claims.

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USDA Generic Approval

Celia Yau & Kirby Ham, Prime Label Consultants
Tracks: USDA, Expert

Find out the latest enforcement priorities, requirements and best practices for the expanded generic rule. Explore generic eligibility and compliance, and discuss enforcement subtleties with FSIS. Understand what you need to do to keep thorough records and discuss strategies to reduce risk.

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USDA Nutrition Library & FoodData Central

Kyle McKillop, Food for Health of People and the Environment Lab, USDA
Tracks: Nutrition, FDA, USDA, Expert

Hear from USDA to better understand USDA FoodData Central. In 2019 USDA instituted the most significant changes to 35 years of content in the Standard Reference nutrition libraries. Learn about the new structure, partner industry data, and how to use this public database.

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USDA Product Trends

Debbie Nece, Cargill Protein
Tracks: USDA, Marketing

Dive into the latest product name and claims trends in USDA labeling. Presented in a case study format, this session will facilitate discussion of trends, marketing innovations, and gray areas to be aware of.

Continuing Conference


Keeping the best of our recent conferences, we will have four unique 'Continuing Conference' sessions to keep you updated on the latest  throughout the year.

September 2024, November 2024, January 2025, March 2025

Networking Events

Sunday June 2

6:15 pm – 9:00 pm

Monday June 3

12:30 pm - 1:30 pm
4:30 pm – 6:30 pm
 
6:30 pm– 8:30 pm 

Tuesday June 4

12:30 pm - 1:30 pm


* additional cost

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Dinner Cruise of Washington DC *

Sunday June 2, 6:15 pm - 9:00 pm
Enjoy delicious cuisine and live entertainment with a view of Washington, DC on this dinner cruise along the Potomac River. On board the elegant Odyssey cruise ship, choose from one of three exquisitely decorated glass atrium dining rooms or head to the open-air observation deck to admire the view. Dine on a delicious 3-course meal, then dance the night away or see the famous sites of the nation’s capital — like the Washington Monument, the Lincoln Memorial, Reagan National Airport and much more under a moonlit sky.

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Networking Lunch Topic Tables

Monday & Tuesday June 3 & 4, 12:30 pm - 1:30 pm
Network at lunch with experts and other conference attendees at themed topic tables. We will be designating some tables at lunch for affinity groups to discuss hot topics such as Clean labeling, Sustainability, Natural Claims, Canadian labeling, etc. Attendees can choose to join one of these tables for networking discussions.

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Cocktail Networking Reception

Monday June 3, 4:30 pm - 6:30 pm
Network with PLC and other conference attendees during a complimentary cocktail reception. Join up into small groups afterwards and continue your conversations over dinner or stop by the headshot booth to refresh your professional image.

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Distinctive Dining*

Monday June 3, 6:15 pm - 9:00 pm
Take in the complete DC experience and get to know other attendees in small groups at some of our favorite local restaurants. We'll have a variety of cuisines to choose from and most are within walking distance from the hotel. Dinner is Dutch treat.

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Invited Speakers & Moderators*

Office of Congresswoman Rosa DeLauro, CT

Office of Congresswoman Alma Adams, NC

Office of Congresswoman Grace Meng, NY

Trish Tung-Tayman, USDA-AMS, Child Nutrition Division

Erin Healy, NOP Division Director, NOP, USDA-AMS

Rosalyn Murphy-Jenkins, Director of LPDS, USDA-FSIS

Jeff Canavan, Deputy Director of LPDS, USDA-FSIS

Tammie Ballard, USDA-FSIS 

Melinda Mallon, USDA-FSIS

Tawana Harrington, USDA-FSIS

Janice Fabina, USDA-FSIS

Kierra Lucas, USDA-FSIS

Cindy Watkins, USDA-FSIS

Hannah Filloon, USDA-FSIS

Sally Jones, USDA-FSIS

Beth McKew, USDA-FSIS

Paul Wolseley, USDA-FSIS

James Chisholm, IEPDS, USDA-FSIS

Robert Hibbert, Wiley Rein LLP

Tony Pavel, Perfect Day Foods

Kantha Shelke, PhD, Corvus Blue LLC

Brian P. Sylvester, Covington & Burling LLP

Patricia Phillips, Phillips Resources
Lisa Cummins, FONA International Inc.

Phil Daniel, TechLinkUSA

Joe Baumert, Director of F.A.R.E

Evangelia Pelonis, Keller and Heckman LLP

Sarah Levy, FoodMinds

Mason Weeda, OFW Law

Erin Taraborrelli, NSF International

Michelle Anstey, NSF International

Christina Bechtold, Prime Label Consultants

Jesse Zuehlke, PhD, Prime Label Consultants

Fred Mosher, Prime Label Consultants

Lisa Weller Ashton, Prime Label Consultants

Emily Hendricks, Prime Label Consultants

Celia Yau, Prime Label Consultants

* Preliminary list of speakers & moderators - typically we have over 40 professionals from government and industry presenting topics at the Food Label Conference.

Private Label Partnership Program (PLPP)


PLC’s Private Label Partnership Program was created to maximize opportunities for Brand Owners to connect face-to-face with Private Label Suppliers at the annual Food Label Conference, the leading event for labeling and compliance professionals. We are excited to welcome a number of Brand Owners at this year's event. Stay tuned....

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ADD-ON TRAINING *

USDA Labeling Basics

Sunday June 2nd / 9:00 am - 4:00 pm
Tracks: USDA 
Instructors: Emily Hendricks and Kirby Ham, Prime Label Consultants

USDA labeling can be very confusing with many different sources for rules, policies, and regulations. Stakes can be high with generic labels no longer having FSIS's stamp of approval. In addition, local inspectors are giving added scrutiny to labels, and the risk of Noncompliance Records is greater than ever. Learn the fundamentals of USDA labeling in this seminar which covers:

  • Details of required and optional label features
  • How to obtain the appropriate type of approval - sketch, generic, or temporary
  • Essential record keeping ​practices and completing the 7234​-1​ ​form ​to assure rapid approvals and successful ​label ​audits
  • Picking a product name - standardized, common or usual, descriptive, and fanciful​ - and ​required ​product name qualifiers
  • Intricacies of ingredient statement, net weight, handling statement, safe handling instructions, address line, and inspection legend
  • Introduction to nutrition labeling and the current regulatory status for USDA

...and much more!

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FDA Labeling Basics

Sunday June 2nd / 9:00 am - 4:00 pm
Tracks: FDA
Instructor: Lisa Weller Ashton, Food Regulatory Consultant

FDA label requirements can be confusing, and trends change at a fast pace. In addition to stringent content and wording requirements, food labels must also comply with size, color, language, and location rules. Claims are also a moving target with many subtleties in wording and design. Learn the basics of FDA labeling rules and keep up with the latest developments. Our content covers:

  • Required label features and formatting
  • Product naming - standardized, descriptive, fanciful, and required flavor qualifiers
  • Intricacies of ingredient statement, net weight, address line, and allergen declaration
  • Introduction to nutrition labeling and the nutrition facts panel
  • Specific ingredient requirements, including flavors, colors, oils, and spices
  • Insight into a variety of special statements and claims
  • Requirements for font prominence, feature placement, and relative size rules

...and much more!

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Canadian Labeling

Sunday June 2nd / 9:00 am - 4:00 pm
Tracks: Expert
Instructor: Erin Taraborrelli, Source Nutraceutical, Inc.

In this seminar, we will explore the complex and ever-changing world of Canadian food labelling regulations. Participants will gain an understanding of the regulations that govern the labelling of food products in Canada - the mandatory and voluntary label elements and how these differ from those in the US. Learn about recent changes such as the new Front-of-Pack requirements and Supplemented Foods Regulations, proposed changes and emerging trends in Canadian food labelling regulations. Understand the compliance and enforcement procedures used by Canadian Food Inspection Agency and identify strategies for ensuring compliance. This seminar covers:

  • The regulations that govern food labeling in Canada
  • Mandatory label features including compliant common names
  • Regulations on claims including nutrient content, organic, Non-GMO
  • Standardized and non-standardized products
  • Differences with US labeling
  • Upcoming changes to the labeling regulations
  • CFIA enforcement

...and much more!

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School Lunch (CN) Labeling

Sunday June 2nd / 9:00 am - 4:00 pm
Tracks: Nutrition, FDA, USDA, Expert 
Instructor: Patricia Phillips, Phillips Resources 

This is the essential primer to understanding how products qualify (or credit) for school lunch program regulations. Learn the what, how and why of  CN Labeling and Product Formulation Statements in this full day seminar.  Optional confidential review of your QC Plan. This training is relevant for new employees responsible for CN labeling, or for a company just exploring the school lunch market.

  • Deconstructing School Lunch complexity
  • Writing, revising & monitoring the required quality control program
  • Obtaining a CN number
  • Applying for & streamlining your CN label approvals
  • What is required on the CN label and 7234 form
  • Understanding the “transitional” regulations for sodium and whole grains and its impact on manufacturers.
  • Documentation requirements for purchased ingredients
  • Calculating the CN (meat, vegetable & bread) label credit
  • Updates on unpublished changes in policy

...and much more!

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Nutrition Labeling

Wednesday June 5th / 8:00 am - 3:00 pm
Tracks: Nutrition 
Instructors: Caitlin Diederich, Taylor Hart, & Marissa Hagedorn, Prime Label Consultants

This comprehensive course gives participants a thorough understanding of nutrition labeling for retail food products under federal regulation - the result: nutrition labeling that meets federal requirements, helps consumers, and maximizes your product positioning. This seminar covers:

  • Requirements for nutrition labeling
  • Proper declaration of mandatory and optional nutrients
  • Nutrient definitions and recordkeeping requirements
  • Methods of obtaining nutrient data
  • Determination of serving size and servings per container
  • Selecting the appropriate Nutrition Facts Panel
  • Nutrition Facts Panel formatting and optimization
  • Nutrient Content Claims

...and much more!

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USDA Generic Labeling

Wednesday June 5th / 8:00 am - 11:00 am
Tracks: USDA
Instructors: Emily Hendricks, Prime Label Consultants

USDA label approval procedures continue to evolve with a new rulemaking for generic label approvals. This seminar will review when you need to go to the USDA for approval and when you can do it yourself. It will also cover top hazards with label review and insider tips and tricks on how to manage the process to get to market faster. The three-hour session will investigate:

  • Eligibility for generic label approval
  • Record-keeping requirements and best practices
  • Insider's guide to label approval, claims and special statements
  • Future policy changes and predictions
  • USDA-LPDS required sketch label approval process and LSAS tips

...and much more!

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Labeling and Marketing Claims

Wednesday June 5th / 8:00 am - 3:00 pm
Tracks: FDA, USDA, Marketing, Expert 
Instructor: Lisa Weller Ashton, Food Regulatory Consultant

Ensuring compliance and substantiation of new product claims is challenging. Learn best practices from Prime Label’s visibility into emerging market trends, including ingredient claims, clean labeling, animal production claims, certifications, functional foods, and more. Participants will leave with an understanding of a variety of FDA and USDA regulated claims, and how they might apply to their own products. Our seminar covers:

  • Enforcement and risk mitigation framework
  • Nutrient, health, structure/function, diet, and immunity claims
  • Natural, “clean label,” ingredient, and allergen claims
  • Bioengineered, organic, and non-GMO statements
  • Animal raising and grading claims, and third party certifications
  • Plant-based, vegan, and blended meat/vegetable products
  • Sustainability, transparency, geographic, and environmental claims
  • Considerations for novel products such as functional foods, CBD items, and innovative snacks

...and much more!

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Mexican Labeling

Wednesday June 5th / 8:00 am - 11:00 am
Tracks: Expert 
Instructor: Phil Daniel & Fabiola Montero, TechLink International

Mexico recently updated their food labeling requirements and all food labels should now be compliant with the latest requirements. We will discuss this substantial change where every food item has been updated to meet the new standard.  This seminar covers:

  • Differences between previous labeling requirements and new labeling requirements
  • New front labeling requirements
  • New product description requirements
  • Nutritional panel guidance
  • Labeling requirements for individual units

...and much more!


* additional cost

LOGISTICS

Things to do in DC

Pricing

Main Conference: June 3 - 4, 2024


$2,150.00 - Main Conference Registration
$2,350.00 - Late Registration
 (after May 15, 2023)

Add-On Training: June 2 & 5, 2024


$995.00 for Full Day Trainings
$595.00 for Half Day Trainings
      

Entire Package savings* of $400 for 4 full days (when booked together - use promo code: 4FULLDAYS)

* Limit one discount per attendee

Cancellation Policy

Standard Cancellation Policy: Any written cancellation(s) received before April 15, 2024 will receive a 50% credit note to any future Prime Label conference in the next eighteen (18) months, provided the full fee has been paid prior to or as of the date of the requested cancellation.

Cancel for Any Reason:
CANCEL FOR ANY REASON protection guarantees a cash refund of 75% of your main conference and training registration costs paid to Prime Label Consultants. CANCEL FOR ANY REASON protection is optional and available for purchase at the individual level. Conference registration cancellation must be made 24 hours or more prior to the start of the Conference.

Hotel

Grand Hyatt Washington DC 
1000 H Street NW      Washington, D.C., USA, 20001     
+1 202 582 1234  grandwashington.hyatt.com 

Reservations: Please click here to register for PLCs' exclusive discount on rooms for the conference. This deal expires May 15th or when the room block is full. Don't miss out on discounted rates!

Directions: Conveniently located at Metro Center - on the Red, Orange, Blue & Silver lines. 

View the latest safety initiatives and updates the Grand Hyatt.

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