Episode 42
Inside Food Safety Risk, The Ultra-Processed Foods Debate, Soli Organic’s Take on Traceability
Episode Description
The August episodes of the Omnivore podcast are jam-packed with trending topics and dynamic insights into the world of food science and technology.
Steve Havlik explains the ways in which the European and U.S. perspectives on food safety differ and how that affects product development. Mario Estevez Garcia previews the special edition of the Journal of Food Science on ultra-processed foods. Margaret Dominguez, vice president, food safety and compliance at Soli Organic, talks tips about choosing tech-enabled traceability systems that fit into the business’ food safety and digital transformation initiatives.
Plus: This episode of Omnivore is brought to you by Kalsec. Visit Kalsec.com to uncover new ways to create clean products that look better, taste better, and last longer...naturally, with Kalsec.
Listen and subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen to podcasts.

Featured Guests
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Steve Havlik RnD
Steve Havlik is a retired food industry executive who has worked in manufacturing and R&D leadership roles for major companies, including PepsiCo and Kraft. Now a consultant, he shares his expertise with IFT on numerous projects, including IFT’s role with the Codex Alimentarius Commission, a global organization that develops standards and codes of practice related to food safety and quality. -
Mario Estevez Garcia Professor, University of Extremadura
Mario Estévez García is a professor of food science and biochemistry at the University of Extremadura in Spain. Dr. Estevez is an internationally recognized expert in oxidation and antioxidants with particular interest on food biochemistry, safety, nutrition and health. He currently serves as Scientific Editor for the Journal of Food Science and Associate for Comprehensive Reviews in Food Science and Food Safety. -
Margaret Dominguez Vice President, Soli Organic
Margaret Dominguez is vice president, food safety and compliance at Soli Organic, an indoor soil-based agriculture company dedicated to high-quality, sustainably grown, 100% USDA Certified Organic produce. In her role, Margaret oversees food safety, workplace safety and quality across high-tech controlled agriculture and packing facilities. Prior to Soli, Margaret held various food safety and sanitation roles at Kellogg’s and Fair Oaks Farms.
Categories
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Food Safety and Defense
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Food Traceability
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Risk Analysis
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Food Policy
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Podcasts
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Omnivore
Omnivore
IFT’s Omnivore and Omnivore Presents: SciDish podcasts spark lively, thought-provoking conversations with the science, business, and regulatory leaders shaping the future of food. Each episode delivers sharp analysis, practical insights, and bold ideas designed to challenge assumptions, ignite innovation, and energize your work across the global food system.
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