The USDA Food Safety and Inspection Services (FSIS) and the National Advisory Committee on Microbiological Criteria for Foods (NACMCF) will be holding a virtual public meeting on August 30, 2023, from 11 a.m.-1 p.m. ET to discuss and vote to adopt NACMCF’s recent report on Cyclospora cayetanensis in produce. Written comments must be submitted by August 25, 2023. The committee will also provide an update on the Cronobacter spp. in powdered infant formula charge.

The report was requested by the FDA, as the agency seeks more information on the factors that can contribute to C. cayetanensis contamination of domestically grown and imported produce, as well as recommendations for developing an effective prevention and management strategy.

As the report highlighted, cyclosporiasis previously was associated with travel outside of the U.S. or consumption of contaminated imported foods. However, in recent years, the U.S. has seen an increase in cases and positive samples associated with produce, both as raw agricultural commodities, and fresh-cut produce, grown in the U.S. In the last three years, the number of cyclosporiasis cases has increased approximately 300%, often linked to fresh produce consumption, specifically leafy herbs and ready-to-eat salads.

Attendees must pre-register by Friday, August 25, 2023, to receive details on how to access the meeting. During pre-registration, attendees may also express interest in delivering comments during the meeting. Oral comments will be limited to three minutes per speaker. The agenda will be shared on the FSIS Events & Meetings page prior to the event.