NCA appoints new senior vice president of scientific and regulatory affairs
The US-based National Confectioners Association has confirmed Farida Mohamedshah as its new senior vice president of scientific and regulatory affairs, writes Neill Barston.
She is set to focus on overseeing relationships with industry regulators and provide member companies with insights on nutrition, food safety and other regulations that impact the manufacturing, distribution and sale of America’s favourite treats.
Her role with the organisation comes as it prepares for one of the core confectionery seasons in terms of Halloween celebrations, which remain an integral part of US culture, and are set to continue this month in spite of pandemic challenges.
“Farida will be an immense asset to NCA and our member companies as we continue to navigate the changing regulatory landscape for the confectionery industry,” John Downs (pictured below), NCA President & CEO, said.
“The COVID-19 pandemic has only underscored the need for policies rooted in sound science. Farida’s knowledge and experience will be critical in helping NCA develop advocacy positions in the areas of food safety, food labelling and nutrition policy and helping our members to be compliant with current and proposed regulations.”
Before joining NCA, Farida Mohamedshah was the director of food, health and nutrition at the Institute of Food Technologists, serving as IFT’s principal scientific and technical resource on these issues. She has published papers in the fields of nutrition and food science, and she is a member of the American Society for Nutrition and the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics. As a nutritionist, she worked on a GRAS dossier and reviews for health and structure function claims for nutrients and bioactive components.
Mohamedshah will begin her position on October 6, succeeding NCA staff member Dr. Debra Miller. Mohamedshah received a Bachelor of Science in Home Economics and a Master of Science in Textile Chemistry and Clothing from the University of Bombay and a Master of Science in Human Nutrition & Food Systems from the University of Maryland. She lives with her husband in Fairfax, Virginia.
