This newsletter has a new name – the CLFP Insider – and a new look! The name was changed to better reflect this publication’s focus on CLFP activities and news.

Food Processing Expo 2018 will be held February 21-22 at the Sacramento Convention Center. The largest event of its kind in California, the 2018 Expo will offer innovative workshops taking a new look at issues affecting your food processing business. Also, find out what’s new with food processing vendors and suppliers on the trade show floor. And in this computer-centric world, the Expo allows you to network in person and make new and valuable connections.

CLFP held its Fall Board of Directors meeting in Lodi on October 19. The location was changed from Napa to Lodi due to the extreme wildfires that occurred in that area in mid-October.

CLFP food processors and Supplier Host Council affiliate members joined together for a day of golf on October 23 in Stockton for its 2018 Supplier Host Council Golf Tournament. The tournament was held for the second time at The Reserve at Spanos Park. Many members look forward to this event and its camaraderie each year.

Two CLFP committee meetings will be held the week of November 13. The Labor and Employment Committee will meet on November 14, and the Food, Safety, Nutrition and Labeling Committee will meet on November 15. Both meetings will be held in Stockton. For more information, contact Julie Wallner.

China’s expanding middle class means room for growth in a number of categories, especially food and beverage. That growth of Chinese consumers offers a lucrative market for U.S. based companies looking for international growth. Not only are Chinese consumers becoming more aware of the pollution and supply chain problems affecting their local farms and processors, but they are also looking for healthier, more convenient items that fit their busy lifestyles. These factors offer a wide range of opportunities for California food producers.

Governor Jerry Brown had until October 15 to sign or veto legislation from California’s 2017 legislative session. In total, 977 bills passed the Legislature and reached the governor’s desk. Overall, he signed 859 measures and vetoed 118 bills. CLFP was actively engaged in many critical policy issues during the end of the legislative session.

Calpipe Industries is the parent company of Calbrite Manufacturing, manufacturer of NSF listed Stainless Steel Electrical raceway (conduit, fitting, and hardware) for the food and beverage industry.

Pacific Flexible Solutions is uniquely positioned to deliver the optimal solution for any flexible packaging needs. We bring together our manufacturing expertise along with vast experience in materials, design, and engineering, plus proven, global alliances to deliver leading edge packaging solutions.

Telstar Instruments is an instrumentation and controls integrator specializing in SCADA/PLC systems, measurement instrumentation, and automated process controls. Telstar performs electrical and controls design, engineering, construction, and maintenance services.