New FDA Rules Focus on Food Safety in Manufacturing

The government agency emphasizes the prevention of foodborne illness—holding food manufacturers more accountable.

New FDA Rules Focus on Food Safety in Manufacturing
New FDA Rules Focus on Food Safety in Manufacturing

Food manufacturers are facing an update to equipment and facility designs to comply with the newest U.S. Food & Drug Administration’s (FDA) safety rules, which focus on the prevention of foodborne illness.

This week, the FDA announced it has finalized the first two of seven major rules under the Food Safety Modernization Act (FSMA). These rules focus on implementing modern food manufacturing processes for both human and animal foods that are produced domestically or are imported. These rules are designed to help manufacturers prevent illness rather than react to a potentially deadly situation.

The FDA’s call for more stringent food safety manufacturing operations is in response to a string of recent outbreaks of listeria and salmonella. This month, a salmonella outbreak linked to cucumbers sold by San Diego-based supplier Andrew and Williamson Fresh Produce spread across 30 states, infecting over 300 people. From May to July of this year, 62 people were infected by a salmonella incident tracked back to tuna from a processing plant in Indonesia and distributed by Osamu Corp., of Gardena, Calif. And, in April, 10 people were infected with listeria found in products manufactured at the Blue Bell Creameries production facility in Brenham, Texas. All 10 patients were hospitalized and three deaths were reported.

An estimated 48 million people (1 in 6 Americans) get sick each year from foodborne diseases, according to recent data from the U.S.Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Approximately 128,000 are hospitalized, and 3,000 die each year.

Proteins Innovations Report
Discover cutting-edge protein packaging innovations from PACK EXPO International 2024! Our editorial team spotlights hygienic equipment and materials designed for the demanding protein sector. From IP66-rated washdown systems and all-servo chub packaging to advanced auto-bagging technology and compostable trays replacing EPS, this report reveals how manufacturers are addressing clean, safe design while improving efficiency.
Take Me There
Proteins Innovations Report
Researched List: Engineering Services Firms
Looking for engineering services? Our curated list features 100+ companies specializing in civil, process, structural, and electrical engineering. Many also offer construction, design, and architecture services. Download to access company names, markets served, key services, contact information, and more!
Download Now
Researched List: Engineering Services Firms