IRVINE, CA - As much of a guessing game that fresh produce can be, we always have the metrics of science to return to. Ensuring that data stays at the forefront of its industry mission, Western Growers (WG) recently named a new leader, appointing Afreen Malik as its new Science Programs Director.

Malik brings over two decades of experience in the management of food safety, quality assurance, and sustainability programs at top food and agriculture companies. In her new role, Malik will be responsible for designing, developing, and deploying programs in support of key WG Science initiatives in food safety, environmental compliance, and data science.

Prior to joining Western Growers on April 1, 2021, Malik served as Director of Technical Services at International Food Safety and Quality Services, a consulting firm that helps companies produce safe foods. Before consulting, Malik spent 20 years in technical services and quality assurance roles at Ocean Mist® Farms, Sunrise Growers, and Calavo Growers.

According to a press release, Malik also served as a biological assistant for the California Department of Food and Agriculture.

Her industry certifications include Preventive Controls for Human Food Lead Instructor, Produce Safety Rule Lead Instructor, Advanced HACCP; Recall Readiness/Crisis Management, Sanitation and Sanitary Practices, SQF Practitioner, and PGFS Auditor Training. Malik is also fluent in English, Urdu, Hindu, and Spanish.

“The addition of Afreen strengthens our capabilities to deliver member-centric technical programs aimed at addressing the most critical needs in food safety and environmental performance,” said De Ann Davis, Senior Vice President, Science.

Malik has a Master of Science degree in Coastal and Watershed Science and Policy from California State University, Monterey Bay, and a Bachelor of Science degree in Biological Sciences from the University of California, Santa Barbara.

Congratulations to Afreen Malik on being named to this new role!

Western Growers