Global demand for dairy products is rising and the popularity of nutritious dairy produce remains strong. Consumer expectations on food safety are high and food safety will be a key topic discussed in depth at the forthcoming World Dairy Summit in Belfast, 30 October- 2 November.

Professor Chris Elliott from Queens University Belfast will give the keynote speech at the Food Safety Conference taking place during the summit, which will focus on the relevance of dairy products and the challenges faced by the food sector, drawing on country-specific experience from New Zealand, China and the UK.

Professor Elliott comments, "The integrity of the global food supply system is subject to huge challenges in terms of accidental and deliberate contamination. Milk and dairy products are a huge and important source of human nutrition worldwide but are equally subject to these growing challenges."

Dr Judith Bryans, president of the International Dairy Federation and chief executive of Dairy UK, adds, "As a global industry, we deliver safe, wholesome and nutritious dairy foods to consumers all over the world and we are resolute in our commitment to keep doing so.

"Across the world, the dairy industry has developed exceptional standards of food safety throughout the supply chain and we will continue to invest in this to ensure that the integrity and authenticity of our products is upheld."

In addition to food safety, other topics will also be discussed during the summit, including issues surrounding animal health and welfare, science and technology, sustainability and farm management in the dairy sector.