(Woodland, CA) – The Yolo County Department of Community Services’ Environmental Health Division is excited to announce the launch of the Food Safety Advisory Forum, which will guide Yolo County in fostering collaboration and dialogue among local food industry stakeholders, academia, and residents. The inaugural meeting will take place on Monday, June 10, from 2:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. at the Department of Community Services complex located at 292 W. Beamer Street, in Woodland.

The Food Safety Advisory Forum will provide a platform for Environmental Health to engage with retail food facilities and the broader community to address food safety challenges and share upcoming program enhancements. These forums will be held semi-annually, offering both in-person and virtual participation options to accommodate diverse schedules and preferences.

April Meneghetti, Director of Environmental Health for the Yolo County Department of Community Services, emphasized the mission behind the initiative: "One of Environmental Health's core objectives is to prevent foodborne illnesses and injuries in our community. Through these food safety forums, we intend to enhance communication with local stakeholders and consumers, while advancing food safety awareness through education and collaboration."

Interested participants are required to register at no charge for the inaugural meeting at www.YoloCounty.org/FoodSafetyForum. For inquiries or additional information, please contact the Environmental Health Division at EHealth@YoloCounty.org or at (530) 666-8646.

The first meeting will serve as an introduction to the forum's objectives and will initiate discussions on strategies to improve food safety practices in Yolo County. Retail food industry professionals, consumers, and members of academia are all invited to contribute their insights and perspectives.

"The success of our retail food safety programs relies heavily on robust industry and community input," added Director Meneghetti, underscoring the importance of collaborative efforts in advancing food safety standards.

The Food Safety Advisory Forum underscores Yolo County's commitment to building trust, transparency, and safeguarding residents health from foodborne illnesses.