FDA updates Leafy Green STEC action plan

The FDA has updated its Leafy Green STEC action plan (LGAP). The LGAP was first released in 2020 following several reoccurring outbreaks linked to leafy greens caused by Shiga toxin-producing E. coli (STEC). The update includes additional information on sampling assignments, method developments, and a status update on the Agency’s long-term longitudinal studies in Arizona and California. As part of this update, the Agency is releasing a new fact sheet on Adjacent and nearby land uses and their impact on produce safety. As the FDA’s food program transitions into the new Human Foods Program, produce safety staff at the Agency are also examining how best to apply the lessons learned and advancements made under the LGAP to produce safety overall while also looking for ways to strengthen our commitment to leafy green safety in the years to come. Engagement with all produce stakeholders continues to be critical to preventing foodborne illness, and we look forward to future collaborations. We intend to discuss our vision for produce safety efforts under the Human Foods Program in early 2024. FDA Updates Leafy Green STEC Action Plan | FDA