Seafood Nutrition Partnership Announces 9th Annual State of the Science Symposium: ‘Powered by Seafood’

Seafood Nutrition Partnership (SNP), in collaboration with SNAC Chair Dr. Tom Brenna and the Scientific Nutrition Advisory Council (SNAC), invites scientists, policymakers, industry leaders, registered dietitians, and sustainability advocates to join the 9th Annual State of the Science Symposium. This premier event will highlight the most current research on seafood nutrition and athletic performance can be attended in-person in Washington, D.C., or viewed virtually via livestream. For a full schedule and registration options, visit: www.seafoodnutrition.org/state-of-the-science-symposium/

When: Tuesday, September 23, 2025

Time: 10 AM – 5 PM EDT
Where: Washington, D.C. and Virtually

Why Attend: 

• Cutting‑Edge Science: Hear TED Talk-style presentations on seafood’s benefits for brain health, maternal wellness, sports performance, and global nutrition.
• Engaging Networking: Connect with researchers, nutrition policy experts, government representatives, and nonprofit and seafood industry innovators.
• Delicious, Sustainable Dining: Enjoy gourmet seafood at lunch and a networking reception, showcasing nutritious and delicious offerings and ecological stewardship.

Featured Speakers

Dr. Tom Brenna, a nutrition professor and brain-health advocate, will speak on the positioning of seafood in national nutrition policy and infant nutrition.

Ms. Leslie Bonci, a registered dietitian and sports nutrition consultant, will discuss how seafood improves sports performance and provides fuel for your body before, during, and after competitive sports.

Dr. Maya Maroto, VP at FoodMinds and a nutrition science and public health strategist, will explore how outdated mercury advice may be depriving a generation of children of critical brain-building nutrients found almost exclusively in fish.

Mr. Joel Johnson, President and CEO at the National Marine Sanctuary Foundation, will present “Powered by Seafood, Powered by the Ocean” on back-to-basics nutrition. 

Ms. Sarah Crowley, VP of Communications and Marketing at the Seafood Nutrition Partnership, will provide consumer insights into the “Fall in Love with Seafood” campaign.

Ms. Jackie Marks, Senior Communications and PR Manager at Marine Stewardship Council, will share consumer insights on MSC’s GlobeScan research.

Chef Scott Drewno, of The Fried Rice Collective restaurant and hospitality group and a 2025 James Beard Foundation Finalist for Outstanding Restaurateur, will share how to make seafood a cornerstone of American nutrition.

Mr. Gustavo Lara, Managing Director for Seafood at Cargill and Vice Chair of SNP, will deliver the closing message: A Nation Powered by Seafood.

For the full speaker lineup and bios, visit the conference page.

Thank You to Our Sponsors

• Presenting Sponsor: Marine Stewardship Council
• Platinum Sponsors: Cargill, StarKist
• Gold Sponsors: Chilean Salmon Marketing Council, Alaska Seafood Marketing Institute, DSM-Firmenich, Global Organization for EPA & DHA Omega‑3s (GOED), Regal Springs, Superior Fresh

About Seafood Nutrition Partnership 

Seafood Nutrition Partnership (SNP) is the leading 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization in the U.S., building awareness of the health and nutritional benefits of seafood. SNP addresses the country’s public health crisis through education programs that inspire Americans to incorporate more seafood and omega-3s into their diets for improved health per the USDA Dietary Guidelines. For more information or to support SNP, visit seafoodnutrition.org.