Speaking Engagements April 28 - 29, 2026

ACI Advanced Summit on Food Law Regulation, Compliance and Litigation

Hilton Chicago/Magnificent Mile Suites
198 E Delaware Pl
Chicago, IL 60611

Troutman Pepper Locke is proud to sponsor the ACI Advanced Summit on Food Law Regulation, Compliance and Litigation on April 28-29, 2026 in Chicago.

Patrick Byrnes will moderate a panel discussion on “The Puzzlement of Ultra-Processed Foods: Clarifying Definitions, Setting Expectations, and Assessing Industry Impact” on April 28. Also, Molly DiRago will provide remarks during the luncheon on April 28.

During Patrick’s session, attendees will gain insights into how state and federal initiatives are converging to redefine what is considered “processed” vs “ultra-processed” in food production, including:

  • Checking the status of FDA initiatives regarding ultra processed foods
    • Implications of pending federal rulemaking
  • Exploring evolving state regulatory frameworks shaping standards for ultra-processed foods (UPFs)
    • Examining how California’s proposed UPF definition is affecting the food industry
  • Understanding how manufacturers can proactively align with emerging state and federal expectations on UPFs through reformulation, labeling, and strategic risk management
  • Navigating consumer expectations and legal risk in product positioning and labeling relative to processed vs. ultra processed food status
Insight Industries + Practices