USSEC, together with the American Soybean Association (ASA), United Soybean Board (USB) and oilseed processor leaders, participated in the annual National Oilseed Processors Association (NOPA) meeting in Dana Point, California on February 18 and 19.  Discussions included the global economy, engaging consumers, implications of the 2014 mid-term elections, federal regulations, agricultural biotechnology and the U.S. transportation system.  Panel discussions included an industry leaders panel and a meat customer panel.
USSEC Chairman Laura Foell participated on the industry leaders panel, along with ASA President Wade Cowan, USB Chairman Bob Haselwood, U.S. Canola Association President Ryan Pedersen and NOPA Chairman Chris Nikkel, of Bunge.  The panel discussed methods for the oilseed industry to work together to fight against regulatory challenges on both the farm and processing plant levels.  Industry leaders also stressed the importance of increasing efforts to educate consumers on biotechnology and the work that goes into meeting consumer needs for healthy, affordable food.