FSIS Extends Comment Period on Proposed Rule for Mechanically Tenderized Beef

The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS)
has extended the comment period for a proposed rule that would require
“mechanically tenderized” labeling for raw or partially cooked needle- or
blade-tenderized beef products, “including beef products injected with
marinade or solution.” According to FSIS, the rule would also require the
labels of mechanically tenderized beef products destined for consumers,
hotels, restaurants, or similar establishments to include “validated cooking
instructions” to ensure safe handling and reduce the risk of foodborne illness.
Acting at the request of two trade associations, the agency will now accept
comments on the new labeling scheme until October 8, 2013. Additional
details about the proposed rule appear in Issue 486 of this Update. See Federal
Register, August 9, 2013.