The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has published a supplement to the 2022 Food Code, incorporating recommendations from a diverse group of stakeholders, including regulatory officials, industry representatives, academia, and consumers. This update follows discussions at the 2023 Biennial Meeting of the Conference for Food Protection and aims to provide practical, science-based controls to mitigate the risk of foodborne illnesses in various food service settings.
Key updates in the supplement include new provisions for disinfecting food contact and nonfood-contact surfaces, as well as equipment. It also expands guidelines on the refilling and reuse of containers within food establishments, offering clearer instructions to ensure safety and compliance. Additionally, the supplement introduces measures to enhance food defense awareness, addressing potential vulnerabilities in food protection.
The supplement further develops the concept of Food Safety Management Systems and Active Managerial Control by defining these terms and specifying when such systems are required. This aims to strengthen the framework for managing food safety risks effectively. Updates to testing requirements for reinstating food employees diagnosed with illnesses such as STEC, Shigella, or Nontyphoidal Salmonella now include culture-independent diagnostic tests, reflecting advancements in diagnostic technology.
A notable addition is the enhanced guidance on sushi rice acidification, which is now detailed in a dedicated section within Annex 6 Food Processing Criteria. This section addresses the risks and controls associated with sushi rice, providing clearer standards for food safety in this area.
The Food Code serves as a model for retail food regulations across all U.S. states, the District of Columbia, and other territories. The FDA encourages state, local, tribal, and territorial partners to adopt the current version, including the new supplement. The agency's Office of Retail Food Protection offers support to regulatory officials, educators, and industry professionals in understanding and implementing these guidelines.
The next comprehensive revision of the Food Code is scheduled for 2026, continuing the FDA's commitment to evolving food safety standards. Further information can be accessed through the FDA's Retail Food Protection resources.
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