July NIOP E-Newsletter

Welcome back to

The Pour Over!

At NIOP, we don't want you to have to pour over tons of information to know what's going on with the association. Instead, we're hoping to provide a monthly quick click that gives updates, details, and reminders of association benefits and upcoming events. By clicking the links within, you have easy access to details on topics of interest.

SEPTEMBER 16 - 17, 2026

HYATT PLACE DFW | DALLAS, TX

$1,575 | NIOP Members Only

Whether you’re new to the industry or have spent years working in it, Oils University is designed to give attendees a deeper understanding of the forces shaping today’s oilseed business.

This two-day educational program goes beyond the basics to explore the full oilseed value chain — from food and non-food applications to emerging market trends, renewable fuels, global demand, and the future of the industry. Here’s a look at this year’s agenda:

MEET THE PRESENTERS

LEADING OUR 2026 OILS UNIVERSITY

DOTY CONSULTING

Dr. Neil Doty is an experienced agricultural and food industry leader whose career has focused on helping organizations build strong strategies, develop new markets, and successfully bring agricultural products from concept to commercialization. His expertise spans cereal grains, oilseeds, vegetables, and fruits, as well as the processing and distribution of food, feed, fuel, fiber, and other value-added products.

Throughout his career, Dr. Doty has held senior executive leadership roles with organizations including Global Electric Motorcars in Fargo, North Dakota, and Sonne Labs/Giant Seeds in Wahpeton, North Dakota. Earlier in his career, he served as Director of Product Development for General Nutrition Corporation in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, where he helped guide the development of new consumer products.

Dr. Doty holds a doctorate in cereal chemistry and technology from North Dakota State University and a Master of Business Administration from Minnesota State University Moorhead. His combination of scientific expertise, business leadership, and practical industry experience gives him a broad perspective on product development, agricultural processing, market strategy, and the evolving opportunities across the food and agriculture sectors.

Mark is the owner of Ada Ag, an agricultural feed and services business in Ada, Minnesota. He acquired the company—formerly known as Ada Feed & Seed—in 2025, bringing extensive experience in agricultural markets, commodity merchandising, commercial management, and industry education to the business.

Before joining Ada Ag, Mark served for six years as director of the Northern Crops Institute, where he helped lead educational programming, market development initiatives, and international outreach supporting northern-grown crops and agricultural commodities. Prior to NCI, he spent more than 17 years with Cargill in commodity merchandising and commercial management roles.

Mark holds a master’s degree in agricultural economics from the University of Illinois and a bachelor’s degree in agricultural economics from North Dakota State University. His broad experience across commodity markets, supply chains, risk management, and agricultural

education gives him a practical, real-world perspective on the forces influencing today’s oils, grains, and agricultural industries.

NORTH DAKOTA SOYBEAN PROCESSORS

Bill McBee serves as Commercial Manager for North Dakota Soybean Processors, where he works at the intersection of soybean procurement, processing, logistics, and product marketing. In this role, he helps connect regional soybean producers with the company’s Casselton processing facility while supporting markets for soybean oil, soybean meal, and soyhull pellets.

Bill has played an active role in the development and launch of the Casselton facility, including helping prepare the plant to receive soybeans and begin commercial operations. He has also represented North Dakota Soybean Processors through industry presentations and interviews focused on soybean processing, feed ingredients, transportation, market development, and the growing role of domestic crush capacity.

Before joining North Dakota Soybean Processors, Bill worked with CGB Enterprises in commodity trading and soybean processing. He is a graduate of Purdue University. His experience across merchandising, processing, logistics, and agricultural markets gives him a practical understanding of how soybeans move from the farm through the processing system and into food, feed, fuel, and industrial markets.

MEET OUR CLASS FACILITATOR

NORTHERN CROPS INSTITUTE

Dr. Casey Peterson serves as Program Development Manager at the Northern Crops Institute, where he helps develop and deliver educational programs designed to meet the evolving needs of agricultural professionals and industry partners. He also contributes to the Institute’s long-term strategic planning and the continued growth of its educational offerings.

Before joining the Northern Crops Institute, Casey spent 25 years working in higher education administration at North Dakota State University and Concordia College. That extensive background gives him a strong understanding of program development, organizational leadership, and creating effective learning experiences for professionals with a wide range of backgrounds and expertise.

Casey holds a bachelor’s degree in music from Lawrence University, a master’s degree in educational leadership from North Dakota State University, and a doctorate in institutional effectiveness from North Dakota State University. His combination of educational leadership, strategic planning, and program-development experience helps ensure that Northern Crops Institute courses provide attendees with relevant information, meaningful discussion, and practical value.

As our class facilitator, Casey Peterson will guide attendees through the Oils University experience, connecting each session and encouraging meaningful discussion throughout the program. His background in education and program development will help ensure an engaging, organized, and valuable learning experience.

MEET THE INDUSTRY EXPERTS

One of the most valuable parts of Oils University is the opportunity to learn alongside NIOP members who bring years of real-world industry experience to the table. Throughout the class, these seasoned professionals will sit with attendees, answer questions, help clarify the material, and share practical insight into how the concepts being discussed apply across the industry. Their presence makes each table discussion more meaningful, giving attendees the chance to learn not only from the presenters, but also from professionals who work with these issues every day.

Doug Adams brings over 42 years of hands-on experience in the oilseed and transportation industries. He began his career as a driver in 1981, hauling loads to and from California during summers while attending Simpson College. Doug joined Johnsrud Transport full-time in 1984, where he transitioned from driving to managing their Des Moines-based food grade tank wash. Under his leadership, the company expanded its cleaning operations with facilities in Lincoln, NE (1991) and West Fargo, ND (2005). Over the years, Doug has worn many hats—working in dispatch, sales, and now serving as General Manager and COO. His deep industry knowledge and operational insight make him an invaluable mentor and resource at Oils University.

SAINT BERNARD RENEWABLES – VICE PRESIDENT

Brian Owens is a seasoned leader in the agricultural commodities sector with over 30 years of experience in domestic and international trading, procurement, and supply chain management. He currently serves as Vice President of Renewable Feedstocks at Saint Bernard Renewables, where he plays a key role in advancing the company’s renewable initiatives. Brian is also the Immediate President of the American Fats and Oils Association (AFOA) and a Past President of the NIOP, reflecting his long-standing leadership in the industry. His expertise and deep network make him a valuable resource for Oils University participants.

Tara Ryan brings more than 20 years of experience at Cargill, where she has built a dynamic career spanning accounting, operations, trading, and risk management. Starting as an accounting intern, Tara’s roles have evolved through operations analyst, commodities trader, and risk manager—culminating in her current position as Senior Risk Manager. She holds a BA from the University of Minnesota Duluth and an MBA from the Carlson School of Management. Tara’s deep understanding of market dynamics and risk strategy makes her a highly respected voice and mentor within the industry and at Oils University.

Andy brings nearly 40 years of industry experience and a deeprooted understanding of commodity markets and oil trading. His career began on the floor of the historic Chicago Board of Trade, where he honed his skills as a trader in the fast-paced world of futures and commodities. In 2002, Andy joined Ventura Foods as Director of Commodity Operations and has since risen to the role

of Vice President of Oil Trading and Sustainability. His extensive market knowledge and leadership in the industry make him a trusted expert and invaluable resource for Oils University participants.

Nate Smithson is a seasoned professional with over 20 years of experience in the agriculture and oilseed industries. A graduate of the University of Minnesota, Nate spent 16 years at CHS, where he focused on vegetable oil sales, canola processing, and risk management. He now serves as Vice President at Moving Parts, bringing a strategic, solutions-oriented approach to the supply chain. Nate’s deep industry knowledge and practical experience make him a valuable mentor and contributor to Oils University. Nate is also the current President of NIOP.

David Tillman is a highly respected Vice President at Stratas Foods, where he has been a key leader since 1988. With over 37 years of experience in foodservice and food ingredients, David brings deep expertise in commodity risk management, product development, and supply chain operations. His career reflects a strong focus on food safety, innovation, and cross-functional team leadership. David’s long-standing industry knowledge and strategic perspective make him an invaluable resource for Oils University participants. David also serves as the Chairman of the Oils University Committee.

Between the presenters and industry experts, Oils University brings well over 200 years of combined industry experience into the room. More than simply hearing the material, attendees can ask questions, gain practical perspective, and learn how experienced professionals have applied these concepts throughout their careers.

Ryan Jackson

Scott Martin

Matt Smith

Sue Farhoud

Brittany Nott

Emma Niapas

Ben Suber

Jordyn Geddes

Kara Eddlemon

Garrett Rudiger

Ramsey Nielsen

Oils University is not only an opportunity to strengthen your industry knowledge it is also a chance to build relationships with the professionals you work alongside throughout the year. We know how valuable it is to meet the people behind the emails, phone calls, and day-to-day business, which is why the program includes ample time and space for meaningful connection.

Attendees will learn together at small tables, work through group discussion prompts, exchange ideas, and have plenty of opportunities to simply get to know one another. Take a look at who is already registered and start thinking about the conversations and connections you could make by joining them in Dallas.

Group Inc.

PARTNER PERSPECTIVES

Our industry is strongest when organizations work together toward shared goals. That's why NIOP is proud to collaborate with sister organizations across the industry, recognizing that each brings unique expertise and perspective while sharing a common commitment to advancing our profession.

The Pour Over occasionally features guest contributors from these partner organizations, providing insights on topics that matter to our members. By sharing knowledge, expertise, and different perspectives, we can all stay better informed and better equipped to navigate the opportunities and challenges facing our industry.

This month, we're pleased to welcome Claudia Larson, President & CEO of the Edible Oil Producers Association (EOPA) as she shares her perspective on a few important issues impacting our industry today.

Conversations and speculation on the federal ultra-processed food (UPF) definition continues...

Last month's American Journal of Public Health (AJPH) launch of its "Fed UP!" campaign was initially interpreted as a sign that the Administration would soon release its UPF definition.

Since then, the National Institutes of Health (NIH), Office of Nutrition Research (ONR), Office of Disease Prevention (ODP), and National Cancer Institute (NCI) published a portfolio analysis that characterizes NIH-supported research on ultra-processed foods (UPF) over the past

by Claudia Larson, EOPA President & CEO

ten fiscal years. The analysis found that from fiscal year 2016 to fiscal year 2025, NIH invested over $95 million to support 81 UPF-specific research projects, with a majority focusing on the connection between UPF consumption and various health conditions. The analysis concluded that more mechanistic studies are needed to better understand the causal pathways linking UPF consumption to poor health outcomes, as well as to develop reliable biomarkers of UPF exposure and disease. (CONTINUED)

It also states that a standardized UPF definition will be essential for improving the accuracy and consistency of exposure assessment and validation of measurement methods in research. Click here for the NIH portfolio analysis.

In mid-June, HHS Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. said the FDA/USDA definition is now sitting with the White House Office of Management and Budget (OMB), telling an industry audience that "we've developed a definition for it... we anticipate that we're going to be able to do a final publication over the next couple of months," and that he favors a "red light, yellow light, green light" front-ofpack labeling scheme once the definition is finalized That follows an April 16 congressional appearance where Kennedy said "once we get that definition of ultra-processed foods, then we go to mandatory front-of-package labeling." However, there is no UPF definition posted on OMB's review website.

Furthermore, there is no UPF definition on the Administration's 2026 Unified Regulatory Agenda, updated earlier this week. Some are interpreting the absence of the definition as meaning the Administration will not use the definition in a regulatory capacity. However, if the definition does not go through the regulatory process, the Administration may very well not be required to solicit public feedback on its definition.

Additionally, D.C. insiders are hearing that the federal definition has been significantly stalled due to White House concerns raised after high level meetings with business and industry leaders over the past few weeks.

So while momentum has been building toward the first-ever federal UPF definition, the definition continues to slip past predicted deadlines and may be stalled for the time being.

Regardless, the science and policy landscape here is moving fast and remains genuinely contested. Some nutrition scientists and industry groups argue the "ultra-processed" category is too blunt an instrument while others see a UPF definition as absolutely essential for improving health in America. The debate is expected to burn on as the federal definition nears release.

Other Timely Updates

Provided by Edible Oil Producers Association (EOPA)

USMCA Official Discussions Trigger Yearly Reviews

On July 1, U.S. Trade Representative Jamieson Greer met virtually with Mexican Economy Minister Marcelo Ebrard and Canadian trade official Dominic LeBlanc to declare whether the three countries wanted to extend USMCA for another 16 years.

Greer indicated more time was needed to fix problems with the pact and scheduled a further negotiating round with Mexico for the week of July 20.

The decision means USMCA will stay in effect for another decade, provided no member tries to withdraw, but it also triggers yearly reviews that could lead to renegotiation of major parts of the treaty.

Trump had signaled ambivalence in the run-up to the review, telling reporters in June, "I don't know that I'm going to renew it," before adding that talks were ongoing.

A further round of U.S.-Mexico negotiations has been scheduled for the week of July 20, and Canada talks remain unresolved.

USDA Directs States to Halt SNAP Restriction Waivers

Following last month's federal court ruling vacating the Trump Administration's approval of Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) food restriction waivers in five states, USDA has begun directing those states to halt implementation of those waivers.

USDA's Food and Nutrition Administration issued notices to each of the five states, instructing them to suspend implementation while the court's order remains in effect.

In the lawsuit, U.S. District Judge Amy Berman Jackson ruled that USDA exceeded its statutory authority by approving the waivers.

It remains unclear whether USDA intends to appeal the decision.

There is now a proposed rule on the Administration's 2026 Unified Regulatory Agenda looking to amend SNAP eligible foods.

Other Timely Updates (Continued)

Provided by Edible Oil Producers Association (EOPA)

Federal Court Dismisses UPF Lawsuit

A federal judge dismissed a lawsuit against several major food and beverage manufacturers that sought to hold the companies liable for chronic diseases allegedly caused by ultra-processed foods (UPFs).

The plaintiff alleged that the manufacturers intentionally engineered UPFs to be addictive, resulting in the development of Type 2 diabetes and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease.

In August 2025, the court dismissed the complaint in its entirety, concluding that the plaintiff failed to plausibly allege that any specific food or beverage caused the claimed injuries or to plead sufficient facts establishing liability against any of the defendants.

U.S. District Judge Mia Roberts Perez subsequently denied the plaintiff's motion for reconsideration and request for leave to amend the complaint, bringing the litigation to a close.

F R O M N I O P G E N E R A L C O U N S E L

The FDA has released its 2026 Human Foods Program (HFP) Guidance Agenda, offering an early look at the agency's regulatory priorities for food and dietary supplements over the coming months. Among the highlights are new guidance on caffeine labeling, use of the "healthy" nutrient content claim, and updates to food facility registration requirements, along with continued work on food safety, food labeling, traceability, and preventive controls.

Notably, the Agenda includes the agency’s continued priority of drafting the “Compliance Policy Guide for Determining the Identity, Quality, and Purity of Olive Oil and Olive-Pomace Oil Products; Draft Guidance for FDA Staff.”

Our partners at OFW Law have prepared a helpful summary outlining the key developments and what they may mean for industry stakeholders. We encourage members to review the memorandum to stay informed about these evolving regulatory priorities.

NIOP’SANNUALHAPPYHOUR ATTHEAFOAANNUALMEETING HEY!!! YOU’REINVITED!

THE LOEWS HOTEL KC OCTOBER 6, 2026

Ifyou'replanningtoattendtheAFOAAnnualMeetingin KansasCity,oryou’relocatednearthearea,joinusforour annualhappyhour!

Eachyear,theAFOAAnnualMeetingbringstogethermanymembersof theNIOPcommunity,makingittheperfectopportunitytoreconnectwith colleaguesandcatchupwithindustryfriends.Tocelebratethose connections,NIOPisonceagainhostingourannualMembershipHappy Hour.

JoinusonTuesday,October6,from4:00–5:00PM attheLoewsKansas CityHotelforanhourofconversation,networking,andcamaraderiebefore theconferencegetsunderway.Whetheryou'realongtimememberornew totheindustry,we'dlovetohaveyouthere!

---- FREETOATTEND ----

Knowsomeonewhoisn'tcurrentlyanNIOPmemberbutshouldbe? Bringthemalong! We'dlovetheopportunitytointroducethemtofellow membersandsharehowNIOPbringsindustryprofessionalstogether througheducation,networking,andcollaboration.

Sharethe NIOPExperience

One of the most common ways people discover NIOP isn't through an advertisement it's through someone they know. That’s why we’re excited to introduce the

NIOPMember InvitationProgram

a new initiative that empowers our members to personally invite qualified industry colleagues, customers, suppliers, partners, and other professionals to experience the NIOP Annual Convention at the member registration rate. The goal isn't to "sell" membership it's to give prospective members the opportunity to experience firsthand what makes NIOP such a valuable professional community.

SUPPORTING NIOP YEAR-ROUND

NIOP’s sponsoring companies play a vital role in the success of our Annual Convention, but their impact extends far beyond a few days each spring Their support helps strengthen NIOP throughout the year by supporting educational programs, member services, leadership development opportunities, and other initiatives that advance our industry.

That’s why we’re proud to continue recognizing these valued partners through our Sponsor Encore Series. Rather than limiting our appreciation to convention week, we’ll be highlighting our 2026 sponsoring companies throughout the year in The Pour Over as well as on the Continued Supporters page of our website

OUR 2026 SUPPORTERS

We are sincerely grateful for these companies and their partnership. We look forward to continuing to showcase the organizations and individuals whose commitment helps advance our mission and serve our members.

If your company is interested in partnering with NIOP, we’d love to hear from you! Connect with NIOP staff to learn more about sponsorship opportunities and how your organization can get involved.

NIOP 2027 ANNUAL CONVENTION

Where Connections Are Made, Knowledge Is Shared, and the Industry Comes Together

BRINGING THE INDUSTRY TOGETHER

More than 500 industry professionals attend the NIOP Annual Convention each year, making it one of the best opportunities to strengthen relationships, grow your network, and make new connections.

STAY AHEAD OF THE CURVE

Already confirmed for 2027 are Thomas Mielke (Oil World) and Joe Pawlak (Technomic) two globally recognized speakers who will provide valuable insights into the forces shaping our industry.

MORE THAN MEETINGS

The NIOP Annual Convention isn't all business. Enjoy memorable receptions, local experiences, and plenty of opportunities to relax and spend time with colleagues from across the industry.

Want to stay on top of everything happening at NIOP? Our Calendar of Events webpage is the perfect place to start.

Whether you're planning your travel schedule, looking for upcoming educational opportunities, or simply trying to stay informed, the NIOP Calendar of Events helps you stay in the know—and stay ahead.

The calendar includes dates, times, and locations for all upcoming NIOP meetings and events, including committee meetings, Board meetings, educational programs, webinars, networking opportunities, and the Annual Convention. Everything is conveniently listed in one

VIEW THE CALENDAR

place, making it easy to plan ahead and make the most of your membership.

Don't miss what's brewing at NIOP. Visit the Calendar of Events regularly and mark your calendar for the programs and meetings that matter most to you.

StayConnected