Six industry leaders honored, environmental recognition and achievement awards.

WASHINGTON- At the 2017 International Production and Processing Expo (IPPE) in Atlanta, Georgia, the North American Meat Institute (NAMI) will honor industry leaders at its annual awards ceremony and luncheon on Jan. 31, 2017 from noon to 1:30 p.m. at the Georgia World Congress Center.

Damian Mason, professional speaker, entertainer, writer and business owner will be the master of ceremonies. The luncheon will be attended by NAMI board members, industry leaders, packer and processor representatives and recipients of the annual awards. NAMI packer and processor members are invited as part of their complimentary registration in the Members to Atlanta program.

“The Annual Awards Ceremony and Luncheon will celebrate the enormous talent and showcase the significant contributions of Meat Institute members and industry leaders,” said NAMI President and CEO Barry Carpenter.

Award recipients include:

Greg Benedict, former COO and president at American Foods Group will receive the E. Floyd Forbes Award to honor his accomplishments and commitment to the meat industry.

Michael Gangel, president of Chad Company Inc. will receive NAMI’s Industry Advancement Award recognizing his contributions to food safety technology in the meat and poultry industry.

John Link, founder and chairman of the board of Jack Link’s Protein Snacks will be recognized with the Edward C. Jones Community Service Award to commemorate his contributions and support of the families and communities around Minong, Wisconsin, where Jack Link’s operates.

Jeff Sindelar, Ph.D., associate professor and extension meat specialist at the Univ. of Wisconsin, Madison will receive the Harry L. Rudnick Educator’s Award for his dedication as an educator of future industry leaders and his commitment to education.

Keith Belk, Ph.D., professor of animal sciences at Colorado State Univ. will be honored with the Foundation for Meat and Poultry Research and Education Scientific Achievement Award, in honor of his contributions to meat science and meat safety research, and his career dedicated to education.

Provisur Technologies will receive NAMI’s Supplier of the Year Award in recognition of its leadership in developing innovative, advanced equipment systems that provide meat and poultry customers with cost-effective, cutting-edge manufacturing.

NAMI will also present the Environmental Recognition Awards during the event.

“The Meat Institute congratulates these exemplary individuals and companies for their impressive achievements,” Carpenter said. “Their hard work and innovation will ensure that the industry continues to employ the highest standards and latest technology to produce wholesome, safe, nutritious products that exceed customer expectations.”