Ag Secretary Keynote Speaker at Beloit Food Processing Conference & EXPO

BELOIT, June, 12 2007 – Rod Nilsestuen, Secretary of the Wisconsin  Department of Agriculture, Trade & Consumer Protection is the keynote  speaker at the upcoming Food Processing Conference and EXPO on June  21. 


Nilsestuen is speaking on Food vs. Fuel, a hot  topic being talked about in board rooms, farm fields and even around  the kitchen table. The all-day event at Blackhawk Technical College in Janesville is  hosted by the Greater Beloit Chamber of Commerce and the Midwest Food  Processors Association.


“The Food vs. Fuel topic is something that interests an extremely  broad audience,” says event coordinator Amy Loudenbeck.  “There are  technical sessions throughout the day that are geared towards food  processors.  But the lunch is for everyone.  It is a time for the processors, producers, vendors, community partners and other  > interested parties to network.”


Professional development workshop topics include:


•     Lean Manufacturing for Food Processors    


•     Traceability: Risks & Opportunities    


•     Best Practices for Beneficial Reuse of Food Processing By-Products    


•     Benefits of Continual Health & Safety Improvements


•     Food Trends & Marketing


The EXPO and workshops provide attendees the opportunity to talk with  industry professionals, see the newest equipment and learn the latest  food processing trends. “Exhibitor spots are almost sold out and we are very pleased with the response for the conference workshops and the luncheon.  We are still  able to accept registrations, but I would encourage people to call  soon,” said Loudenbeck.


This event is open to the public.  Pre-registration is required for  most activities.  Expo-only attendees need not register in advance  ($10 admission fee).  For more information, call Amy Loudenbeck at  (608) 313-9123 or visit www.greaterbeloitchamber.com and click on the  FOOD EXPO link.