USDA Releases Proposed Regulatory Framework to Reduce Salmonella Infections Linked to Poultry Products

The USDA/ FSIS released a proposed regulatory framework for a new strategy to control Salmonella contamination in poultry products and reduce foodborne illnesses attributed to these products. The agency is hosting a virtual public meeting on Nov. 3, 2022, to seek input from stakeholders on the proposed framework. The CDC estimates that Salmonella causes approximately 1.35 million human infections and 26,500 hospitalizations annually in the US. Of those infections, over 23% are attributed to poultry consumption. The USDA/ FSIS has identified a series of strategic actions FSIS could take that are likely to drive down Salmonella infections linked to poultry products. The proposed framework consists of three key components that support a comprehensive approach to controlling Salmonella in poultry. (i) Requiring that incoming flocks be tested for Salmonella before entering an establishment; (ii) Enhancing establishment process control monitoring and FSIS verification; and (iii) Implementing an enforceable final product standard. FSIS is soliciting input on all aspects of the draft framework. @ https://www.fsis.usda.gov/news-events/news-press-releases/usda-releases-proposed-regulatory-framework-reduce-salmonella