Willette M. Crawford

Dr. Willette M. Crawford is a Senior Scientist & Director at the Center for Food Safety & Health within SC State University's 1890 Research & Extension program. Her work focuses on improving public health and agribusiness through research in food safety, quality, nutrition, and chronic illness prevention.

Education:

• Bachelor of Science in Chemistry, 2002, SC State University
• Bachelor of Science in Biology, 2002, SC State University
• Master of Public Health, 2004, East Tennessee State University
• Doctorate of Food Science, 2007, Purdue University

Research Interests: Dr. Crawford specializes in biocontrol methods (e.g., bacteriophages, bacteriocins), produce safety, novel decontamination technologies, and agricultural water quality. Her leadership extends to consultancy through Katalyst Consulting LLC and prior roles in global supply chain management at Chiquita Brands International and Green Giant Fresh.

Professional Background: As a subject matter expert for the U.S. FDA, she contributed to the Food Safety Modernization Act (FSMA) regulations and developed a Food Defense and Bioterrorism Simulation tool. She also pioneered early item-level traceability solutions for fresh produce.