FSIS Proposes Rule Requiring Ground Beef Records

The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s (USDA’s) Food Safety and Inspection
Service (FSIS) has proposed a rule requiring that “all makers of raw ground
beef products keep records” that would allow FSIS to conduct timelier
recalls of potentially contaminated meat. The proposed rule would require
retailers that mix meats from multiple sources to keep more detailed records
identifying the source. According to a July 16, 2014, press release, previous
FSIS efforts to encourage raw ground beef retailers’ maintenance of clear
records have been insufficient in aiding the service in tracing the source of
contaminated meat. “The improved traceback capabilities that would result
from this proposal will prevent foodborne illness by allowing FSIS to conduct
recalls of potentially contaminated raw ground products in a timelier manner,”
said USDA Deputy Under Secretary for Food Safety Brian Ronholm. FSIS will
accept comments on its proposed rule for 60 days following publication in the
Federal Register.

Issue 530