The GMA Science and Education Foundation (SEF) is a 501(c)(3) charitable foundation whose mission is to promote and conduct high impact applied research of direct interest and benefit to the food processing industry. SEF research projects are designed to advance knowledge in food safety and food science by targeting broad issues affecting members of GMA. The information is used to educate key audiences and the general public regarding significant matters of importance to the industry.

Annually, SEF offers more than 25 Better Process Control Schools (BPCS) in conjunction with FDA-approved universities throughout the United States. Canned Foods: Principles of Thermal Process Control, Acidification and Container Closure Evaluation is recognized by FDA and USDA as the official text for the certification of supervisors of low-acid and acidified low-acid shelf-stable foods packaged in hermetically sealed containers. The SEF also supports BPCS programs organized outside the US in conjunction with the FDA, universities, and foreign government officials. For over 30 thirty years, GMA has maintained an open dialogue with FDA and USDA to insure that the science and regulatory requirements associated with thermally processed foods are the foundation of this well recognized educational program.

Through the SEF, the global food industry can leverage state-of-the-art technologies and processes with the technical expertise provided by FPA's scientific staff to achieve timely results and solutions to pressing industry problems. GMA's scientists are recognized as leaders in the technical fields of food science and processing. SEF projects continue to build FPA's scientific reputation as the appropriate information gained through the activities of the SEF is submitted for publication in peer-reviewed journals.

REF projects are funded through a variety of means. The predominant mechanisms of funding are described below:

  • Industry - A group of companies contribute funds
  • Government - Agencies directly contract or award grants
  • Contributions - A foundation, an individual, or an institute donates funds

For further information regarding the described services, please contact:

Craig Henry, Ph.D.
(202) 639-5983
chenry@fpa-food.org

View the current schedule of the Better Process Control Schools... click here to be redirected to the website.