United Fresh is underscoring the importance of industry feedback and involvement as the congressional give-and-take over the landmark Food Safety Enhancement Act of 2009 shifts from the House to the Senate.

"Now more than ever, we need industry members to make their voices heard as we work to shape this legislation that will assuredly affect us all as business owners and consumers," said United Senior Vice President of Public Policy Robert Guenther.

"No other issue touches every aspect of our industry more than food safety. I cannot think of a better reason for our industry to come to Washington and let our elected leaders and administration officials know how their actions will affect the ability of the produce industry to deliver healthy, safe and affordable produce to every congressional district across the country," he said.

Guenther offered September’s Washington Public Policy Conference as the perfect opportunity for the produce industry to get engaged on food safety legislation to ensure that Congress enacts effective and fair food safety standards.

The conference will give attendees the opportunity to interact face-to-face with members of Congress and their staffs, as well as provide a venue for in-depth dialogue on food safety during a town hall meeting with officials from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration.

"There is no substitute for the interaction between policymakers and representatives from the produce industry," said Guenther. "That personal contact creates a real opportunity for change. As Congress continues work on this critical food safety legislation, it is imperative that all members of our industry take advantage of opportunities to make their voices heard, and we feel the Washington Public Policy Conference is the perfect venue."

The conference will also highlight upcoming milestones under the Produce Traceability Initiative, as well as host a meeting of United’s Food Safety and Technology Council, made up of the leading United Fresh member minds in the field of food safety.

For additional information, or to register, please visit the United Fresh click here or contact Angela Bezon at 202-303-3400 ext. 416.