297: Norovirus 101: What Event Planners Need to Know About Food Safety

Food safety isn’t just about what’s on the plate—it’s about protecting everyone who gathers to share a meal. This week on Eating at a Meeting Podcast LIVE, join me as I chat with food safety expert Francine Shaw, CP-FS, FMP, about one of the most contagious viruses threatening events today: norovirus. 
 
Francine’s expertise spans the globe, with projects from Peru to Dubai. She’s worked with household names like Target, Marriott, and McDonald’s. From keynote stages to consulting with public health departments, Francine, founder and CEO of Savvy Food Safety, Inc., co-creator and co-host of Don't Eat POOP! A Food Safety Podcast, and author of “Who Watches the Kitchen,” has made it her mission to champion food safety in every corner of the industry. 
 
With norovirus outbreaks on the rise, especially during the busy event season, it’s a crucial topic for meeting planners. Did you know that norovirus spreads easily through contaminated food, surfaces, and direct contact? Unlike COVID-19, hand sanitizer alone won’t cut it, so proper food safety protocols and cleaning measures are essential. 
 
In this episode, we’ll discuss: 
 
How norovirus spreads and why it’s so persistent. 
➤ Practical strategies for venues and planners to reduce risk—from the kitchen to the buffet line. 
➤ The key questions you need to ask your catering and venue partners to ensure safe practices. 
➤ Steps you can take to safeguard attendees and staff, including cleaning high-touch surfaces and promoting thorough handwashing. 
 
Whether planning a corporate conference or a community gathering, this conversation will equip you with the tools to prioritize health, safety, and trust in your food and beverage experiences. Make food safety the backbone of every event, not an afterthought. 
 
📲 Don’t miss this essential episode! Share your questions and insights in the comments. Let’s tackle this together!