The US Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) recently announced a series of measures aimed at strengthening its oversight of Listeria, a bacterium that has caused numerous illnesses and even fatalities. These initiatives are part of FSIS’s ongoing efforts to improve food safety practices and align with the latest scientific research.

Emilio Esteban, USDA undersecretary for food safety, emphasized the importance of these steps in enhancing the agency’s food safety protocols. He stated that these improvements are common-sense measures that will bolster the food safety net and prevent future outbreaks.

Within the next 30 days, FSIS plans to implement several initiatives across three key categories:

1. Enhancing FSIS’ regulatory and sampling approach to Listeria:
– Starting in January 2025, FSIS will expand Listeria species testing to all samples of ready-to-eat products, environmental surfaces, and food contact surfaces. This broader testing will provide more information about the effectiveness of a facility’s sanitation program and signal the need for follow-up actions.
– FSIS will engage the expertise of its National Advisory Committee on Microbiological Criteria for Foods (NACMCF) to review the agency’s regulatory approach to Listeria monocytogenes.

2. Equipping FSIS inspectors with updated training and tools:
– FSIS will update instructions and training for food safety inspectors to help them identify systemic issues more effectively. Inspectors will receive additional training on Listeria monocytogenes control to ensure compliance with regulatory requirements.
– The agency will conduct Food Safety Assessments at ready-to-eat meat and poultry facilities to gather information and identify areas for improvement. Follow-up visits will be conducted by field supervisors to address any identified issues.

3. Tightening oversight of regulated establishments:
– FSIS inspectors will verify specific Listeria-monocytogenes-related risk factors at ready-to-eat facilities weekly to identify potential issues and take appropriate actions.
– The agency will clarify state and federal requirements for consistent oversight of Talmadge-Aiken (TA) programs through updated cooperative agreements and instructions.
– FSIS will revise establishment-review alert triggers to better identify high-risk facilities based on new data on Listeria-related risk factors.

Recent outbreaks linked to sliced deli meats and ready-to-eat meat and poultry products have underscored the importance of these new processes and training initiatives. FSIS is committed to enhancing its oversight and ensuring the safety of the food supply chain.

In conclusion, the USDA’s FSIS is taking proactive steps to strengthen its oversight of Listeria and prevent future outbreaks. By implementing these initiatives, the agency aims to improve food safety practices and protect consumers from foodborne illnesses.