US Pathogen Reduction and Testing Reform Act to Ban Pathogenic Products

On 26 June 2014 two Representatives from the US congress announced the introduction of a Bill being titled “The Pathogen Reduction and Testing Reform Act of 2014”. (1)
 
FAIRFIELD, N.J. - July 25, 2014 - PRLog -- This bill would amend the Federal Meat Inspection Act, the Poultry Product Inspection Act and the Egg Product Inspection Act to provide the United States Department of Agriculture Food Safety Inspection Service (USDA FSIS) with the authority to designate certain pathogens or contaminants as adulterants, allowing them to recall products containing these pathogens.

Pathogen Reduction and Testing to Avoid Foodborne Illness

The act will establish a clearer definition of adulterants to include “a microbial pathogen, such as Campylobacter or Salmonella, which is resistant to not less than two critically important antibiotics for human medicine”. The act will require the USDA FSIS to develop and implement testing protocols to identify the adulterants. This will also require the USDA to recall the products or prevent products from being sold that are contaminated with the adulterant.

This bill is being put forth because the USDA FSIS stated that they did not believe they had the legal authority to recall meat, poultry or egg products contaminated with antibiotic-resistant pathogens when they were questioned as to why a manufacturer could continue to sell chickens with a multidrug-resistant pathogen, Salmonella Heidelberg, in 27 states plus Puerto Rico. This chicken product has reportedly sickened over 500 people. (2)

References:

(1)    Final Pathogen Act
(https://consumermediallc.files.wordpress.com/2014/06/dela...)

(2)    Definition of Adulteration (http://www.foodqualitynews.com/Regulation-and-safety/Path...)

About SGS Food Safety Services

SGS is committed to keeping readers informed of regulatory news and developments. Leveraging a global network of laboratories and food experts, SGS provides a comprehensive range of food safety and quality solutions including analytical testing, audits, certifications, inspections and technical support (http://www.sgs.com/en/Consumer-Goods-Retail/Food/Primary-...). SGS continually invests in world class testing capabilities and state-of-the-art technology to help clients reduce risks, and improve food safety and quality.

For further information please contact an SGS expert.

Website: www.foodsafety.sgs.com

SGS is the world’s leading inspection, verification, testing and certification company. SGS is recognized as the global benchmark for quality and integrity. With more than 80,000 employees, SGS operates a network of over 1,650 offices and laboratories around the world.

Contact
James Cook
***@sgs.com
End
SGS Consumer Testing Services PRs
Trending News
Most Viewed
Top Daily News



Like PRLog?
9K2K1K
Click to Share