In this special episode, recorded live at the 2025 International Fresh Produce Safety Symposium, host Damien Farrelly brings together a powerhouse panel of global food safety experts:

• Professor Jim Monaghan (Harper Adams University, UK)
• Distinguished Professor Phil Bremer of the University of Otago & New Zealand Food Safety Science and Research Centre (NZFFSRC)
• Ben Hoodless (ElementAG Consulting, Australia)

Together, they unpack the evolving landscape of fresh produce safety — from global trends to practical farm-level insights.

Expect a candid discussion on:

• The biggest challenges facing growers in a changing climate
• How AI and automation will shape the next decade of food safety
• The crucial balance between hazard vs risk
• Why data collection and genome sequencing are the new frontiers of traceability
• The importance of industry collaboration and shared responsibility across supply chains

This episode is a must-listen for growers, QA professionals, auditors, and anyone working to elevate standards in fresh produce safety across Australia and New Zealand.

00:00:00 – Introduction

00:00:45 – Panel Discussion Introduction

00:02:12 – Jim Monaghan's Reflections

00:06:40 – Dr Phil Bremer's Reflections

00:10:33 – Ben Hoodless's Reflections

00:13:40 – Q&A Session

00:15:45 – Ben Hoodless's Additional Comments

00:16:26 – Audience Questions

00:16:45 – Panel's Future Predictions

00:19:35 – Discussion on New Innovations

00:22:35 – Insights on Shared Responsibility

00:25:06 – Closing Remarks