The updates include instructions for annual environmental sampling of Cronobacter and Salmonella at powdered infant formula facilities and instruction for FDA notification should a sample test positive for Cronobacter or Salmonella, or if a sample is found to have nutrients that are above or below required levels per the agency’s infant formula regulation.
Stakeholders have six months to submit comments on the two new chapters—Food Allergen Program and Acidified Foods—that were recently added to FDA Guidance Hazard Analysis and Risk-based Preventive Controls for Human Food.
The agency’s laboratory system plans to implement a new quantitative method for veterinary drug residue analysis in bovine muscle samples on October 1, 2023. In addition, USDA FSIS is updating three additional quantification testing methods for fat, salt and screening of beta-antagonists.
The USDA Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) has launched a new feature on its website that enables software developers to access data on recalls and public health alerts through an application programming interface (API). Through this new tool, developers can leverage FSIS recall data to create new products for consumers or incorporate them into existing digital services and mobile apps.
There are several options to highlight your use of organic ingredients, but you must understand the regulations surrounding each option to avoid running afoul of USDA labeling regulations.
James “Jim” Jones, former EPA employee and member of the Reagan-Udall Expert Panel for Foods, will serve as the FDA’s first Deputy Commissioner for Human Foods. He will lead the charge in setting and advancing priorities for a proposed unified Human Foods Program
On August 8, The FDA issued a direct final rule reflecting its June 2015 final determination that the use of partially hydrogenated oils (PHOs) in foods is no longer Generally Recognized as Safe (GRAS). The rule revises regulations related to peanut butter, certain oils and previously authorized use of PHOs in margarine, shortening, and bread, rolls and buns.
Certain types of sanitizers can be used in food service and food processing facilities on surfaces such as dishes and utensils. Historically, EPA guidance has addressed the addition of claims against bacteria—but not against viruses—to products registered only with sanitizing claims. If the draft guidance is finalized, it could lead to changes in the FDA Food Code to reflect new labeling regulations.
On September 29, 2023, the FDA is hosting a hybrid listening session to obtain feedback about topics related to modernizing recalls of FDA-regulated food, beverage and supplement products. The agency is inviting comments from all interested stakeholders.
Panelists at the IAFP Conference “From Bench-top to Scale Up: The Unspoken Food Safety Challenges of Research and Development” session highlighted areas of regulatory and food safety risk during R&D, as well as potential solutions to prevent delays in bringing new products to market.
