Most of us are knee deep in the annual calendar recalibration known as “back to school month” and are hastily trying to get acclimated to the new pace- frantically searching for the rhythm that feels more like normal and less like a jolt to the system. While all of this is going on, we should remember that back to school time also means back to Congress.

In response to FSMA, SQFI has developed a voluntary Preventive Controls audit checklist and guidance document for stakeholders to use as a guide for identifying the necessary steps to bridge any gaps between a company’s SQF Program and the PC rule.

A few weeks ago, Cynthia Brazzel, director of member relations and advocacy for the western region at FMI, toured the newest Northgate Gonzalez Market in Anaheim, CA. One unique feature of this vibrant store is its Mercado concept (a variety of food islands and perimeter service counters), which puts an emphasis on fresh foods. Shoppers can take their pick at a sushi bar, house made sausage center, a meals-to-go island, guacamole station, coffee, Aguas Frescas and so on.

At the FMI Foundation, we have our own version of the special plate—the Gold Plate Awards. Since 2013, we’ve been using the Gold Plate Awards to highlight the outstanding programs implemented by the food industry to encourage family meals. The award recognizes outstanding programs that food retailers and suppliers have implemented to encourage families to share more meals, together at home, more often.