Committee Descriptions

Executive Technical Board
The Executive Technical Board (ETB) works with staff to direct and supervise the ADS Technical Program, which ensures that Association members remain proactive on technical issues affecting the industry (e.g., labeling, food safety, processing, preservation).  The ETB meets four times per year -- January, Spring Technical Meeting, July/August and the Fall Annual Meeting.  Committees operating under the purview of the ETB include the Emulsion and Quality Assurance Committees.  These Committees meet once per year during the Technical Meeting and are open to observers as well as Committee members.

Emulsion Committee
The Emulsion Committee furthers the development and distribution of information on emulsion stability of dressing products.  The group is currently focusing on two projects:

• The Effect of Oil Type and Quality on Emulsions
• Development of Standard Formulas for Sauces

Presentations on these projects will be presented during the Emulsion Committee meeting, to be held in conjunction with the 2009 Technical Meeting.

Quality Assurance Committee
The Quality Assurance Committee (QAC) reviews new instrumentation and analyses for dressings and sauces, and ensures that the ADS technical manuals remain current and progressive.  The Committee is currently working on the following projects:

• Update Section III, “Microbiological Testing” of the Methods and Procedures Manual (MAPMAN).
• Review of Section IV, “Essential Tests” of the MAPMAN and revise, as appropriate.
• Review of Section V, “Helpful Tests” of the MAPMAN and update, if necessary.
• Review of Section IV, “Microbiological Guidelines” of the Quality Assurance Guidelines (QAG) Manual.
• Review of Section XIII, “Food Industry Audit Guidelines” of the QAG Manual to ensure the guidelines remain current.

Tim Hendra of the Neogen Corporation will make a presentation on rapid food safety test kits during the Quality Assurance Committee meeting, to be held in conjunction with the 2009 Technical Meeting.

Portion Control/Flexible Packaging Committee
The Portion Control/Flexible Packaging (PC/FP) Committee addresses the needs of members involved in the portion control and flexible packaging industry.  The group meets twice per year during the Annual and Technical Meetings.  The PC/FP Committee will undertake a project with a focus on sustainability and a project to address challenges in packaging innovations.

Charles Smith of Sartorius Mechatronics Corp. will make a presentation on in-line leaker detection machines during the Portion Control/Flexible Packaging Committee meeting, to be held in conjunction with the 2009 Technical Meeting.

Consumer Awareness Committee
The Consumer Awareness Committee (CAC) directs activities to raise product awareness, position dressings and sauces as part of a healthy diet, and fosters growth of industry products.  This is accomplished through various ADS-sponsored campaigns, such as National Salad Month and various print and broadcast initiatives. Current projects include radio and television media tours, consumer blog showcasing industry trends and member products, and print activities, including a color editorial feature and industry product safety promotion, among others. 

Supplier Advisory Committee
The Supplier Advisory Committee (SAC) capitalizes on Supplier talent to improve Association programs for the benefit of all ADS members.  Improving communications between Suppliers and Manufacturers, the Committee members serve as Goodwill Ambassadors, welcoming new members and first-time attendees at ADS Meetings. 

Membership Council
The ADS Membership Council promotes membership in the Association through member endorsement.  The Council also focuses on member retention and satisfaction.