More than 800 food safety professionals from around the world gathered in St. Louis this week for SQF Unites 2026, 
marking the largest attendance in the event’s history. The record participation reflects the continued growth of the SQF program and the industry’s shared commitment to strengthening food safety systems across the global supply chain.
SQF Unites has become a central forum for practical food safety leadership. Retailers, manufacturers, certification bodies, service providers, and regulators came together to exchange ideas, share lessons learned, and explore solutions to the challenges facing today’s complex food system.
Throughout the week, attendees participated in sessions focused on the issues shaping food safety today and in the years ahead. Topics included emerging supply chain risks, regulatory developments, food safety culture, technology adoption, change management, and strategies to build stronger and more resilient global food safety systems.
One of the most anticipated moments of the event was the formal rollout of SQF Edition 10. The new Edition represents a significant evolution of the SQF program, introducing a modern digital experience, clearer risk-based scoring, and stronger alignment with evolving regulatory and retailer expectations. The update reflects extensive collaboration across the industry and aims to make the Code easier to navigate while strengthening transparency and accountability.
Interest in Edition 10 was evident across the conference program. Attendees engaged in sessions exploring the changes, how the updated scoring model will work, and what organizations can do now to prepare for the transition before the first audits begin in 2027.
The event also celebrated the professionals who help advance food safety every day. During the SQF Excellence Awards ceremony, Brian Shelton of EAGLE Certification Group received the 2026 Excellence in SQF Auditing Award, and Emily Wagner of Landmark Snacks received the Excellence in SQF Practitioner Leadership Award. These awards recognize individuals whose leadership, technical expertise, and dedication help strengthen food safety culture and elevate the credibility of the SQF program across the supply chain.
The conference also recognized the newest recipients of the SQF Food Safety Auditing Scholarships, supported by the FMI Foundation, which uplifts the development of the next generation of food safety auditors. The scholarships help students and early career professionals pursue training and credentials needed to enter the auditing profession, strengthening the pipeline of qualified food safety experts. By investing in future auditors, SQFI continues to support a more capable and resilient global food safety system.
Another highlight of the week was the SQF Unites Expo, where attendees connected with leading solution providers supporting food safety, quality management, technology, and supply chain integrity. The Expo floor created opportunities for hands-on demonstrations, practical discussions, and new partnerships that help organizations implement stronger food safety systems in their daily operations. A full list of exhibitors can be found on our SQF Expo page.
As SQF Unites 2026 concluded, one message stood out clearly. The food safety community continues to grow stronger through collaboration, shared learning, and a commitment to continuous improvement.
The record attendance and strong engagement this year highlight the continued momentum behind the SQF program and its role in supporting a more transparent, resilient, and trusted global food supply chain.
SQF Unites will return in 2027 in Tucson, Arizona, bringing the global food safety community together once again for collaboration, learning, and connection. The event is scheduled for March 2–5, 2027, and will continue to build on the momentum created this year.
Thank you to the SQF community for making SQF Unites such a success, and we hope to see you all next year in Tucson, Arizona for another incredible conference.
