Swine-inspection-modernization
USDA is modernizing its swine slaughter inspection system for the first time in decades.
“It’s the first change that we’ve had in over 50 years to our swine inspection system,” said Mindy Brashears, Deputy Undersecretary for Food Safety.
She says one mandatory part of the update requires all establishments to do additional testing.
“They will have to test their process in two places to demonstrate process control,” she explained. “They’ll be taking samples in their plants and these microbial samples will inform them if they’re in control or out of control.”
The second part is an opt-in system that changes the inspection process.
“We’re still inspecting every carcass, but we’re focusing more on offline inspection activities such as verifying HACCP, sanitation and animal welfare activities.”
Ag Secretary Sonny Perdue said, “This regulatory change allows us to ensure food safety while eliminating outdated rules and allowing for companies to innovate. The final rule is the culmination of a science-based and data-driven rule making process which builds on the food safety improvements made in 1997, when USDA introduced a system of preventive controls for industry. With this rule, FSIS will finally begin full implementation of that program in swine establishments.”
To view the final rule, visit the FSIS website, go.usa.gov/xVPVK.
Source: USDA