LFI’s annual Open Day and Members Research Forum Days have proved immensely popular over recent years and have grown in stature due to the high calibre of speakers and delegates.

We have responded to feedback from our Membership to review the format of our Open Day and Forum Day. Members enjoyed the networking opportunities, the mix of internal and external speakers and the chance to view our comprehensive facilities. However, Members also felt that they often missed valuable talks due to timetable clashes between parallel Forum Sessions.

In 2008 we will have three separate flagship events for Members which will minimise timetable clashes. Each day will focus on one of three key areas affecting the industry, enabling Members to network on three different occasions. Each day will include high profile external speakers and LFI's staff will showcase the Forum Research findings and report on major developments in their areas of expertise.

The key date for your diaries is:

• 30 September 2008 - Food Safety Day - Food Quality/Food Safety Forums

As in the past, there is no cost to Members to attend this meeting.

All our Members have the right to belong to, and contribute to, the Forum Research programmes, and we would encourage you and your colleagues' attendance at this event. The various events during the year will provide insights into a wide range of food and beverage research areas that will undoubtedly be of keen interest to all Members.

I believe that our decision to focus our science delivery on the key industry areas of Food Safety, Food Innovation, and Nutrition, will reap benefits for our many Members and clients. 2008 promises to be an exciting year and I look forward to greater Member participation in our various Forum meetings during the year.

Please take advantage of our Member Research Forum Meetings and we hope to see you at this events.

Looking forward to seeing you all.

Dr Neil Hargreaves
Science Director