The U.S. food regulatory landscape is undergoing a period of accelerated change, shaped by evolving public expectations, scientific advancements, and increasing scrutiny of food safety and ingredient transparency.

Drawing on decades of experience across regulatory oversight, public health, and industry collaboration, this lecture will explore how food organizations can remain resilient and effective amid regulatory uncertainty.

The presentation will examine key areas where regulatory expectations are shifting, including GRAS determinations, the use of natural colorants and ingredients, pathogen control strategies, and emerging concerns around foodborne illness prevention.

As science continues to advance, regulatory frameworks are increasingly data-driven, risk-based, and prevention-focused—placing new demands on food safety, quality, and R&D professionals.

Rather than viewing regulatory change as a constraint, this lecture will emphasize how organizations can use it as a catalyst for strengthening systems, improving decision-making, and building trust with regulators and consumers alike. Topics will include proactive risk assessment, robust scientific validation, cross-functional collaboration, and the importance of adaptability in program design.

Ultimately, success in today’s environment requires more than compliance—it requires anticipation, scientific credibility, and organizational agility. This session will offer practical perspectives on how the food industry can prepare for what lies ahead while maintaining confidence, resilience, and a strong commitment to public health.

Meet the 64th Tanner Lecturer

Dr. Emilio Esteban

Chief Scientific Officer

Mérieux NutriSciences

Bio

Dr. Emilio Esteban is a globally recognized expert in food safety, public health, and regulatory science, serving as Chief Scientific Officer at Mérieux NutriSciences.

In this role, he leads scientific strategy, strengthens analytical capabilities, and drives innovation in food safety and quality solutions worldwide.

Prior to joining Mérieux NutriSciences, Dr. Esteban held senior leadership positions at the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), including serving as Under Secretary for Food Safety, where he oversaw the nation’s food safety mission.

His tenure included key roles shaping policy, scientific standards, and inspection strategies to enhance public health protection.

Dr. Esteban’s career also includes service with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) as an epidemiologist and assistant director in the Food Safety Office, where he contributed to national surveillance and outbreak response.

He has served on the executive board of the International Association for Food Protection (IAFP) and chaired the Codex Alimentarius Commission Committee on Food Hygiene, influencing international food safety standards and risk management practices.

Dr. Esteban holds a Doctorate in Veterinary Medicine from the Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, an MBA from the Panamerican Institute, a Master of Preventive Veterinary Medicine, and a Ph.D. in Epidemiology from the University of California, Davis.