The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) is currently seeking nominations for membership to the National Advisory Committee on Microbiological Criteria for Foods (NACMCF). This advisory committee plays a crucial role in providing impartial scientific advice and recommendations to the USDA and other government agencies on microbiological and public health issues related to the safety of the U.S. food supply. In 2025, USDA plans to appoint 30 committee members who will be responsible for reviewing FSIS’ regulatory approach to Listeria monocytogenes.

Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack emphasized the importance of the NACMCF, stating, “For the past 36 years, experts serving on the National Advisory Committee on Microbiological Criteria for Foods have played a critical role in fortifying our food safety standards and ensuring they rely on the latest science. Our approach to food safety must continually evolve, and those selected to serve on this committee will help us strengthen our regulatory frameworks and programs to best safeguard the health and well-being of American families.”

The USDA is looking for individuals with expertise in microbiology, risk assessment, epidemiology, public health, food science, and other relevant disciplines to provide a diverse and comprehensive scientific perspective on food safety issues. While nominees affiliated with consumer groups do not need to have a scientific background, individuals from academia, industry, state and local government officials, public health organizations, and industry and consumer organizations are encouraged to submit nominations. Self-nominations are also welcome.

The recommendations of the NACMCF are instrumental in strengthening the food safety programs of the USDA’s FSIS and the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Food and Drug Administration. Additionally, the work of NACMCF benefits the programs of other federal agencies involved in food safety, such as the Department of Health and Human Services Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the Department of Commerce National Marine Fisheries Service, and the Department of Defense Veterinary Services.

Nominations for the NACMCF must include a cover letter addressed to the Secretary of Agriculture, a resume or curriculum vitae, and a completed USDA Advisory Committee Membership Background Information form (AD-755). All nomination packages must be submitted within 60 days of the announcement being published in the Federal Register. Nomination packages can be sent via email to NACMCF@usda.gov or mailed to the U.S. Department of Agriculture, Attn: Kristal Southern, Designated Federal Officer, FSIS\OPHS\National Advisory Committee on Microbiological Criteria for Foods, Washington, DC.

For individuals with questions about their nomination package, Kristal Southern can be contacted via email at NACMCF@usda.gov or by telephone at 202-937-4162.

In conclusion, the NACMCF plays a vital role in ensuring the safety of the U.S. food supply by providing expert scientific advice and recommendations to government agencies. Individuals with relevant expertise are encouraged to nominate themselves or others for membership to contribute to the ongoing efforts to strengthen food safety standards and regulations.

Source: USDA