SAN ANTONIO — Ice cream manufacturer Blue Bell Creameries received the 2025 Food Safety Leadership Award from the International Dairy Foods Association (IDFA) during Dairy Forum.

IDFA said the award honors industry members and organizations that demonstrate “outstanding leadership directed at enhancing food safety within the dairy products industry.”

Established more than a century ago, the Brenham, Texas-based ice cream maker sells its products in close to half of the states in the US. IDFA shared that during the past decade, Blue Bell implemented one of the dairy industry’s “most rigorous food safety protocols and quality assurance programs,” going beyond industry standards.

“This award is a reflection of the hard work and dedication of an entire team that shares a common goal,” Blue Bell president Jimmy Lawhorn said. “Together, Blue Bell has built and embraced a culture over the years where food safety is not just a priority, but a fundamental value that shapes everything we do. We are proud to be a part of IDFA, and to share in their commitment to working together to make a positive difference for the dairy industry and consumers.”

The company’s food safety approach includes comprehensive training programs for all staff members, internal audits and BRCGS certification at its three main production facilities. Blue Bell shared that it also invested in equipment with enhanced sanitary design, as well as software and data solutions, facilities upgrades, and an ingredient screening and approval program.

IDFA senior vice president for regulatory and scientific affairs Roberta Wagner said Blue Bell’s ongoing food safety training stood out.

“Food safety systems, protocols, and data are essential, but nothing is more important than rigorous and consistent training for all staff,” Wagner said.