Debra Smith

Background

About Debra Smith

Deb has over 35 years of food safety/research training and experience. Prior to joining Vikan she worked for 3 years as a microbiologist at a large poultry production site, 16 year with DEFRA as a Scientific Officer in the Food Safety Division, and for 9 years as Food Hygiene Research Manager at Campden BRI managing research projects, and providing training and support to the food industry with regard to food hygiene. Deb holds qualifications in Applied Microbiology (HNC), Nutrition & Food Science (BSc(Hons)), Advanced Food Hygiene and HACCP. She is also a qualified FSSC Lead Auditor. Deb is an active Committee Member of the UK regional section of the European Hygienic Engineering Design Group, a Fellow of the Institute of Food Science and Technology, and sits on the IFST Scientific Committee. She is also current Chair of the Microbiology Member Interest Group at Campden BRI, and has worked on the development of GFSI Benchmark requirements as part of the Service Provision Technical Working Group. Deb regularly presents her research at National and International food safety events. She has been a member of IAFP for the last 15 years, is Treasurer of the IAFP UK Affiliate, and regularly presents at both the European and US annual food safety events. She has also authored/co-authored of numerous food safety/hygiene publications, including peer reviewed papers, book chapters, and food industry hygiene guidelines At Vikan Deb provides internal food safety and hygiene advice, training and support. She is also available to conduct food industry site visits and Workshops, in order to develop new and improved cleaning equipment, as well as support the food industry through the provision of bespoke hygiene training and advice.