Association of Food and Drug Officials

The Association of Food and Drug Officials (AFDO) is an international, non-profit organization that plays a crucial role in promoting public health and consumer protection. It was established to streamline and simplify regulations related to foods, drugs, devices, cosmetics, and consumer products. AFDO operates with a mission to protect public health and safety by collaborating with both public and private sectors, advocating for unified voices to impact food and medical product safety laws, rules, regulations, and regulatory programs.

Mission and Purpose

AFDO's primary mission is to advance public health through the development of uniform laws, regulations, and guidelines. It achieves this by fostering education, communication, and cooperation among government agencies, industries, and consumers. The organization also identifies, nurtures, and strengthens potential collaborations that align with its efforts. AFDO provides a platform where regional, national, and international issues are deliberated and resolved to ensure efficient public health and consumer protection.

Activities and Priorities

AFDO conducts various activities aimed at advancing its mission:

• Engagement with Regulatory Programs: The organization engages with regulatory programs to inform stakeholder needs and prioritize its activities.
• Food Safety Initiatives: AFDO develops and enhances programs focused on produce and retail food safety.
• Professional Development: It aims to recruit and retain the next generation of public health regulatory professionals by providing resources and opportunities.
• Data Management: AFDO builds and sustains data sets that support regulatory programs in meeting public health objectives.
• Training and Education: The organization identifies and provides timely training on technical and professional issues pertinent to its members.
• Policy Advocacy: AFDO is involved in guiding the development of regulatory frameworks for emerging areas such as cannabis and its derivatives.

Financial Information

As a nonprofit, AFDO's financial operations are transparent, with recent data showing significant revenues and expenses. For instance, in 2023, AFDO reported a revenue of $15.7 million and expenses of $15.4 million, with total assets amounting to $5.17 million[1]. Donations to AFDO are tax-deductible, reflecting its designation as a charitable organization.

Notable Events and Conferences

AFDO hosts an annual educational conference that has been ongoing for over a century. This event provides a platform for stakeholders from government, industry, and the public to discuss and develop initiatives on food, drug, medical device, cosmetic, and product safety issues[2].

Membership and Alliances

AFDO provides membership opportunities that offer valuable programs, training, and networking to professionals across various sectors, including government, industry, academia, and consumer advocacy[5]. The organization values inclusivity and collaboration, fostering a community that can influence regulatory environments effectively.