SNAC International announces SNX26 education lineup
The speakers will address the forces reshaping the snack industry.
Brand Level View of the Marketplace panel hosted by Sally Lyons Wyatt, Circana.
SNAC International has announced the education session lineup for SNX26, spotlighting the legal, regulatory, political, and consumer forces shaping the snack industry in 2026 and beyond. Designed for senior leaders and rising decision-makers, these sessions aim to deliver actionable insight to help companies anticipate risk, adapt to change, and position their brands for long-term growth in an increasingly complex marketplace.
Education sessions
Monday, March 30
What’s Changing Legally—and What It Means for Snack Companies
8:30–9:15 am
Martin Hahn, partner, Hogan Lovells; legal counsel to SNAC International
As labeling, packaging, and compliance expectations evolve, snack companies face mounting legal complexity. Hahn will examine shifting federal guidance, emerging legal exposure, and practical strategies companies can apply now to stay ahead of enforcement risk and regulatory uncertainty.
Midterm Elections: What’s at Stake for the Snack Industry
8:30–9:15 am
Kelly Knowles, interim president and CEO, SNAC International
With Washington dynamics in flux, this session offers a strategic look at the upcoming midterm elections and their implications for the snack sector. Attendees will gain insight into key races, policy priorities, and political shifts that could shape the regulatory and business landscape in the years ahead.
Sustainability & Packaging Reform: What’s at Stake at the Federal and State Levels
9:30–10:15 am
Mark Bescher, legacy public policy; consultant to SNAC International
As momentum builds around extended producer responsibility and packaging reform, Bescher will break down critical federal and state developments, compliance considerations, and potential cost and operational impacts across the snack supply chain.
Navigating MAHA: Consumer Perception, Ingredients, and Brand Risk
9:30–10:15 am
Maggie Gentile, partner, Food Directions
The Make America Healthy Again (MAHA) movement is aiming to reshape consumer expectations, retailer decision-making, and policymaker scrutiny. Gentile will explore how ingredient perceptions are evolving, where reputational risks are emerging, and what brands should be preparing for as regulatory attention intensifies heading into 2026.
SNX26 will take place March 29-31 at the Hyatt Regency Dallas. Click here to register.
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