Women in Food Safety Together, we can do better
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About us

Our story

Women in Food Safety began with one belief: no woman should have to navigate her career alone.

Women in Food Safety community illustration

Early in her food safety journey, founder Melody Yu was driven by a mission to protect public health. Along the way, her network helped her find confidence, direction, and her voice as a leader. That experience became the heart of WIFS: to build a community that could serve as a source of support and inspiration for women across the food safety industry.

In 2020, Melody shared this vision with a group of passionate industry leaders who became the founding committee. The first in-person meeting took place in Seattle during the GFSI Conference, where the idea began to take shape as a movement.

Since then, Women in Food Safety has grown from a conversation into a global community, connecting professionals across manufacturing, laboratories, regulatory agencies, academia, consulting, and executive leadership.

Our journey

The story is continuing

  1. 2020

    The beginning

    Women in Food Safety was founded, with the first founding committee meeting held in Seattle during GFSI. Founding committee: Melody Yu, Jill Hoffman, Jacqueline Southee, Laura E. Gutierrez Becerra, and Melanie Neumann.

  2. 2023

    LATAM chapter launched

    WIFS expanded globally with the LATAM Chapter, creating a culturally connected space for Spanish-speaking professionals.

  3. 2025

    Nonprofit status achieved

    WIFS officially became a recognized 501(c)(3) nonprofit, strengthening its ability to serve and support the community.

  4. 2026

    Caribbean chapter launched

    WIFS continued its global expansion with the launch of the Caribbean Chapter.

Why we exist

Food safety protects lives, but the people behind that mission need support, too.

Women in Food Safety exists to create connection, mentorship, visibility, and leadership opportunities for women at every stage of their careers. We believe that when women are supported, the entire industry becomes stronger.

What started as one idea has become a movement built on community, courage, and shared purpose. Together, we can do better.