NSF International, an independent global organization based in Ann Arbor, Mich., that certifies products and writes public health standards for food, water and consumer goods, announces its first call for nominations for the 2012 Food Safety Leadership Awards (FSLA) program. Now in its ninth year, this program recognizes individuals that demonstrate outstanding food safety leadership in the food industry.

Manufacturers, researchers, foodservice operators and members of academia are encouraged to submit nominations by Feb. 3, 2012. The winners will be announced at the 2012 Food Safety Summit on April 18, 2012 in Washington, D.C. The Food Safety Summit is produced by BNP Media, the Troy, Mich., owner of Dairy Foods magazine.

Categories include education/training, equipment design, packaging innovation, product development, research advances, system improvement and technology breakthroughs, as well as a special lifetime achievement section. 

Nominations will be evaluated based on creativity, innovation, design, contribution to the advancement of food safety and overall quality of contributions made. An independent panel of food safety experts will select the winners.

To nominate, go to http://www.nsf.org/business/newsroom/fs_awards_nomination.asp and fill out the online form or download and send by mail to Mary Ellen Krueger, NSF International, 789 N. Dixboro Rd., Ann Arbor, MI 48105. Nominators can also fax to 734-827-7832 or email to mkrueger@nsf.org.