🐖Proposed Changes to Swine Slaughter Inspection Regulations
FSIS is proposing to end mandatory mandibular lymph nodes incision and viscera palpation of swine carcasses in all swine slaughter establishments (i.e., establishments operating under traditional swine slaughter inspection or the New Swine Slaughter Inspection System (NSIS). Mandibular lymph nodes ("lymph nodes") incision and viscera palpation of swine carcasses are not needed to ensure food safety, as FSIS swine condemnation rates are low and disease conditions that are condemnable defects can be detected visually through other pathological changes in the carcass and its parts. Therefore, FSIS is proposing to amend the meat inspection regulations to remove requirements for establishment sorters to "incise mandibular lymph nodes and palpate the viscera" as part of their sorting activities before FSIS post-mortem inspection in NSIS establishments. FSIS is also proposing to amend the post-mortem swine inspection staffing standards table applicable to swine slaughter establishments operating under traditional inspection. This change would allow FSIS more flexibility to assign inspection program personnel (IPP) based on the establishment's line configuration, other establishment operations, and FSIS staffing needs.
Learn More🥓Implications of Removing Pumped Bacon Sampling Regulations
FSIS is amending the Federal meat inspection regulations to remove the provisions providing for FSIS' sampling and testing of pumped bacon for nitrosamines. FSIS stopped sampling for nitrosamines in 1998.
Learn More🥩Proposed Rule to Remove Standard of Identity for Canned Tripe with Milk
FSIS is proposing to remove the standard of identity for canned "Tripe with Milk." Although some establishments may continue to produce canned tripe with milk products, FSIS has determined that the existing standard for the finished canned article is unnecessary. The preamble to the rule that established the standard in 1950 did not provide any explanation or justification for the standard. Removal of the standard would provide greater flexibility for establishments. FSIS' labeling requirements are sufficient to ensure that these products are not misbranded.
Learn More🍗USDA Updates State Meat and Poultry Inspection Program Lists
FSIS is amending the Federal meat and poultry products inspection regulations to remove its lists of states that do not operate their own meat or poultry inspection (MPI) programs that are "at least equal to" FSIS' Federal inspection programs and have therefore been designated for FSIS' Federal inspection. FSIS is also amending the regulations to remove or revise related cross references to the lists. Going forward, FSIS will maintain lists of states with and without MPI programs on its website to ensure that the public has accurate and timely access to information about State and Federal inspection programs.
Learn More🍗Regulatory Requirements for Meat and Poultry Product Compliance
The Department of Agriculture submitted an information collection requirement to OMB for review related to the importation and transportation of meat, poultry, and egg products. It includes specifics on forms and procedures necessary for maintaining safety and compliance standards within these industries. Comments on this requirement are invited from affected businesses.
Learn More🐎Removal of Horse Inspection Regulations by USDA
FSIS is amending the Federal meat inspection regulations to remove the regulation that established a voluntary fee-for-service program for ante-mortem inspection of horses. The U.S. District Court for the District of Columbia vacated the voluntary fee-for-service program on March 28, 2007. FSIS is removing the regulation to ensure the Agency's regulations accurately reflect current requirements.
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