USDA announces action to declare Salmonella an adulterant in Breaded Stuffed raw chicken products

August 1, 2022 – The USDA/ FSIS announced that it would declare Salmonella an adulterant in breaded and stuffed raw chicken products. By declaring Salmonella an adulterant in these products, FSIS will be able to ensure that highly contaminated products that could make people sick are not sold to consumers. Since 1998, breaded and stuffed raw chicken products have been associated with up to 14 outbreaks and approximately 200 illnesses. The products appear cooked, but they are heat-treated only to set the batter or breading, and the product contains raw poultry. Breaded and stuffed raw chicken products will be considered adulterated when they exceed a very low level of Salmonella contamination and would be subject to regulatory action. FSIS will propose setting the limit at 1 colony forming unit (CFU) of Salmonella per gram for these products, a level the agency believes will significantly reduce the risk of illness from consuming these products. The notice is expected to publish in the Federal Register in the fall, and FSIS will seek public comments addressing the standard. The action is part of FSIS’ broader efforts to reduce Salmonella illnesses associated with poultry. @ https://www.usda.gov/media/press-releases/2022/08/01/usda-announces-action-declare-salmonella-adulterant-breaded-stuffed#:~:text=WASHINGTON%2C%20August%201%2C%202022%20%E2%80%93,said%20Agriculture%20Secretary%20Tom%20Vilsack