USDA lays out a five-point plan towards food safety standards

Ag Secretary Brooke Rollins says USDA is making changes to food safety with a focus on meat and poultry.

“USDA is announcing a five-point food safety plan, which will serve as the department’s road map for an even safer, more robust food supply moving forward. First, we are enhancing microbiological testing and oversight. Number two, equipping our inspectors with advanced tools and training, including new data collection on listeria risk factors and empowering inspectors to spot emerging problems early and prevent outbreaks. We’re also enhancing our training at USDA for these inspectors. Number three, we’re implementing a common-sense strategy to reduce salmonella. We’ve instructed FSIS to launch a new practical approach to salmonella control that focuses on effective and achievable strategies to truly reduce those illnesses. Number four, strengthening state and local partnerships, and finally, number five, empowering inspectors across the USDA,” said Ag Secretary Brooke Rollins.

She adds that USDA will strengthen enforcement to prevent repeat violations and make sure food facilities follow strict safety rules.

Related Stories
Livestock producers should inspect animals daily, report any suspicious wounds immediately, and comply with local movement restrictions.
Wheat Harvest Expands As Drought Still Pressures Pastures
USDA confirmed the latest cases involve a calf in La Salle County and a dog in Andrews County
Texas Tech’s Dr. Jennifer Koziol discusses the latest New World screwworm cases in Texas, ongoing response efforts, and how livestock biosecurity can prevent the pest’s spread.
Corn ethanol demand and stronger oilseed processing continue supporting domestic markets for crop producers.

LATEST STORIES BY THIS AUTHOR:

FarmHER Laura Adams raises cattle in Georgia, overcoming family tragedy with the help of Farm Dog of the Year, Skippy.
Farmers will need to closely monitor forecasts if the regulatory changes are implemented, as temperature cutoffs will replace fixed spray dates.
Under this agreement, SCDA will administer a program covering infrastructure and timber losses, as well as future economic and market losses.
With China’s pullback, U.S. sorghum producers must broaden their export markets. Building connections now could help stabilize prices and demand for the upcoming larger crop.