Women in Food Safety began with one belief: no woman should have to navigate her career alone.
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 Journey2020 — 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 Shouthee, Laura E. Gutierrez Becerra, Melanie Newmann
2023 — LATAM Chapter Launched
WIFS expanded globally with the launch of the LATAM Chapter, creating a culturally connected space for Spanish-speaking professionals.
2025 — Non-Profit Status Achieved
WIFS officially became a recognized non-profit organization, strengthening its ability to serve and support the community.
2026 — Caribbean Chapter Launched
WIFS continued its global expansion with the launch of the Caribbean Chapter.
Why We Exist, and the story is continuing....
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!
