Letter from the Executive Director

This past year, FEMA envisioned what the future may hold for our trade association and the flavor industry based on our strategic planning efforts that have helped us take the long view on what is ahead. An important outcome from this process has been a renewed commitment to our member companies through the creation of a new vision, core purpose, core values and five key goals for the future focusing on Advocacy, Science, Education, Industry IP Protection and Awareness.

Although our strategy changed, it is important to note that our mission has not and this continues to complement the ongoing commitment of our members. As you can see, this volunteer engagement is reflected throughout this Annual Report. With a new online format, this report enables us to bring you important information in the most dynamic form possible, breaking away from the constraints of the printed page. More importantly, the digital medium will empower FEMA to achieve our five goals by making our resources — and our message — more accessible than it has ever been.

As you peruse this year’s achievements, you can see the collective work of FEMA’s volunteers and staff reflected in numerous ways. This includes innovative educational programs and events to stay informed, numerous opportunities to engage with colleagues throughout the flavor industry, an ongoing focus on science and safety, and much more.

FEMA is communicating in a new way as well. This report highlights a two new videos to help the public understand flavors and the critical importance of the FEMA GRAS program in an easy-to-understand multimedia format. These new resources enable FEMA to tell our story and join the public dialogue where consumers would rather click and play, rather than click and read.

I am proud of our accomplishments and thankful for the Board, committees and volunteers who partner with our staff to make our achievements possible. I’m grateful that we are able to continuously strengthen FEMA’s value proposition for our member companies based on the promise of our new vision and plan for the future.

Sincerely,

Jerry Bowman