Stevens will lead IFPA’s global efforts to shape food safety and regulatory policy, strengthening engagement with international bodies
The International Fresh Produce Association (IFPA) has announced that Dr Eric Stevens will join the association as vice-president of food safety and regulatory affairs.
Effective 18 March, the move will see Stevens lead IFPA’s global efforts to shape food safety and regulatory policy.
As a result, he will serve as a key liaison to US regulatory and food safety agencies and strengthen engagement with global and regional regulatory and standard-setting bodies.
Stevens will also support IFPA member needs through technical expertise, resource development, and strategic collaboration with internal teams and external coalitions, the association confirmed.
“Eric brings a valuable combination of deep scientific expertise and global regulatory experience at a pivotal time for our industry,” said IFPA chief global policy officer Alexis Taylor.
“His expertise in translating science into risk-based, practical policy that works for regulators and for the produce supply chain will be an incredible asset to IFPA’s strategic goals and mission.
”His leadership will strengthen our voice as we advocate for clear, scientifically rigorous standards that protect public health and support innovation,” Taylor outlined.
Most he led scientific and market development for farm-to-fork food safety diagnostics and supported verification programs aligned with global regulatory and audit expectations at Hygiena.
“I’m honoured to join IFPA and to serve an industry that plays such a critical role in global nutrition and public health,” Stevens said.
“Fresh produce is central to healthy diets worldwide, and advancing practical, risk-based policies is essential to ensuring both safety and access.
”I look forward to working with IFPA members and partners around the world to foster regulatory alignment, strengthen food safety systems, and support practical implementation in diverse markets,” he added.
