USDA’s FSIS Strengthens Measures Against Listeria in Ready-to-Eat Meat and Poultry Products
October 13, 2023
In a significant move to enhance food safety, the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) announced stronger measures to protect consumers from Listeria monocytogenes (Lm) in ready-to-eat (RTE) meat and poultry products. The new regulations aim to improve transparency and allow for more proactive prevention of Listeria contamination in the food supply chain.
When asked if this action is in response to the recent spat of food borne illness outbreaks, including a noted deli-meat Listeria outbreak – Ron Simon, the nation’s leading Listeria lawyer stated: “The USDA and FSIS have always taken the dangers posed by Listeria contamination seriously, but yes, recent events likley encouraged a more aggressive approach. Listeria is too dangerous to allow complacency set in.”
The Rising Concern of Listeria
Listeria monocytogenes is a bacterium that can cause listeriosis, a serious infection particularly dangerous for pregnant women, newborns, older adults, and individuals with weakened immune systems. Despite being relatively rare, listeriosis is a leading cause of foodborne illness deaths in the United States due to its high mortality rate. RTE meat and poultry products are of particular concern because they do not require further cooking by the consumer, and any contamination present at the point of sale can directly lead to illness.
Key Proposals by FSIS
The FSIS is proposing revisions to its regulations that would require establishments producing RTE meat and poultry products to:
- Routinely Share Listeria Testing Data: Establishments would be mandated to provide FSIS with ongoing access to their Lm testing results and other relevant data. Currently, while FSIS has the authority to access this information, it may not receive it promptly. Regular access to testing data will enable FSIS to better evaluate each establishment’s control measures against Lm and adjust inspection activities based on the assessed risk.
- Enhance Transparency Through Public Disclosure: FSIS plans to publicly share certain establishment-specific information related to RTE meat and poultry products. This includes naming establishments and disclosing the amount of product produced by those that have received a Public Health Alert or have been linked to a Listeria outbreak. The goal is to inform consumers and stakeholders about potential risks and encourage establishments to adhere strictly to safety protocols.
The Impact on Food Safety
Dr. Emilio Esteban, USDA Under Secretary for Food Safety, emphasized the importance of these measures, stating, “This action will enable FSIS to more effectively detect Listeria monocytogenes contamination and gather data that will help prevent contaminated products from reaching consumers.” By having timely access to testing data, FSIS can identify patterns, target inspections more effectively, and intervene before contaminated products are distributed.
Understanding Listeria in RTE Products
While cooking can destroy Lm, RTE products bypass this critical control point because consumers typically consume them without additional heating. Contamination can occur post-processing, especially if there are lapses in sanitation practices within the facility. By focusing on RTE products, FSIS aims to address one of the most significant vectors for Listeria transmission.
What This Means for Food Establishments
Food establishments producing RTE meat and poultry products will need to:
- Implement rigorous Listeria monitoring programs.
- Maintain transparent communication with FSIS regarding testing results.
- Prepare for potential public disclosure of their Listeria control performance.
These requirements may necessitate investments in improved testing facilities, staff training, and perhaps changes in operational procedures to minimize contamination risks.
Consumer Benefits
For consumers, these measures promise enhanced safety and greater transparency. Public access to information about establishments linked to Listeria outbreaks empowers consumers to make informed choices. It also holds establishments accountable, creating a market-driven incentive for maintaining high safety standards.
Next Steps
FSIS is likely to engage with stakeholders, including food industry representatives, consumer advocacy groups, and public health officials, to refine these proposals. Establishments should stay informed about the regulatory process and prepare to adapt to the forthcoming changes.
Conclusion
The FSIS’s proposed measures represent a proactive approach to food safety, addressing the challenges posed by Listeria monocytogenes in RTE meat and poultry products. By enhancing data sharing and increasing transparency, the USDA aims to reduce the incidence of listeriosis, protect public health, and strengthen consumer confidence in the food supply.
About FSIS
The Food Safety and Inspection Service is the public health agency within the USDA responsible for ensuring that the nation’s commercial supply of meat, poultry, and egg products is safe, wholesome, and correctly labeled and packaged.
Stay Informed
Consumers and industry stakeholders are encouraged to stay updated on these developments by visiting the FSIS website or WWW.FOODPOISONINGNEWS.COM.
