FDA Pilot Projects to Explore Best Methods for Food Tracing

Two new FDA pilot projects are expected to enhance the agency’s and industry’s ability to trace products responsible for foodborne illness outbreaks. The projects, required under the Food Safety Modernization Act will be carried out by the Institute of Food Technologists (IFT), a nonprofit scientific society consisting of professionals engaged in food science, food technology, and related professions.

 

The Food Safety Modernization Act requires the FDA to establish at least two pilot projects on tracking and tracing: one involving produce and one involving processed foods. Signed into law in January, the act also directs the FDA to establish recordkeeping requirements for high-risk foods to help in tracing products.

 

“We can prevent illnesses and reduce the economic impact to the food industry if we can more quickly determine what foods may be causing an outbreak and what foods can be eliminated from consideration,” said Michael R. Taylor, FDA deputy commissioner for foods. “We recognize the importance of engaging stakeholders throughout the process and will consider what is practical for facilities of varying sizes and capabilities.”

 

The pilots will evaluate methods and technologies for rapid and effective tracing of foods, including types of data that are useful for tracing, ways to connect the various points in the supply chain, and how quickly the data are made available to the FDA.

 

Key stakeholder groups, including industry, government, and consumers, will have input into the pilots, and efforts will be made to include those representing the food supply chain – from farms to restaurants and grocery stores.

 

After the pilots are completed and additional data is gathered, the FDA will initiate rulemaking on recordkeeping requirements for high-risk foods to facilitate tracing. The FDA will hold three public meetings during the comment period on the proposed rule.

 

More information is available at: FDA/FSMA and FDA Pilot Projects.