USDA/FSIS reported that current limitations in available test methods, including concerns about accuracy and unacceptably high false positives, are reasons for the delay in raw breaded chicken testing for Salmonella. The delay in sampling and related verification activities for Salmonella in not ready-to-eat (NRTE) breaded stuffed chicken products indefinitely. In April 2024, FSIS published a final report announcing its plan to implement sampling and testing of raw incoming chicken components used to produce raw breaded stuffed chicken products. This testing program was initially scheduled to begin May 1 and later postponed to November 3 to give the agency additional time to finalize relevant guidance and instructions and to prepare laboratories for sampling and testing. A new implementation date has not been set. Continuing the conversation on Salmonella in poultry, FSIS will host a meeting on January 14, 2026, to gather input on practical strategies to reduce Salmonella illnesses associated with poultry products. Leading up to the meeting, FSIS held a series of roundtable discussions with stakeholders, including representatives from large and small poultry establishments, industry associations, commercial purchasers of raw poultry, academia, and consumer advocacy groups. These discussions focused on broad policy and technical issues related to Salmonella control. The public meeting will build on those conversations and provide an opportunity for additional stakeholders to share their perspectives, the agency said. @ https://www.qualityassurancemag.com/news/usda-indefinitely-delays-salmonella-testing-program-for-raw-breaded-stuffed-chicken/?utm_campaign=Quality+Assurance+%26+Food+Safety+News&utm_source=12%2f09%2f2025+-+&utm_medium=email&utm_term=https%3a%2f%2fwww.qualityassurancemag.com%2fNews%2fusda-indefinitely-delays-salmonella-testing-program-for-raw-breaded-stuffed-chicken&utm_content=1079672&isid=4744FC
