The US Food and Drug Administration (USFDA) has reviewed current food safety transportation regulations and asked commercial food transporters to follow it to reduce the chances of physical, chemical, biological and other risks during transportation of foods.
In an advance notice of proposed rulemaking (ANPRM) published in Federal Register, the FDA had requested input on writing the new rules from all interested parties, including the food and transportation industries and consumer interest organisations.
The ANPRM is the first step in creating new regulations to govern sanitary practices by shippers, carriers by motor vehicle or rail vehicle, receivers, and others engaged in the transportation of food products for people and animals. FDA’s associate commissioner for food protection, Jeff Farrar, said, “Our aim is to look at every component of the system to assess hazards and to take science-based action where appropriate to maximize the safety of our food from farms all the way to consumers' tables.”
The new industry guidance covers safety measures that should be employed while the regulations are being written and finalised. They include ensuring that food in transit is maintained at appropriate temperatures; that such food is closely monitored for pests; that the vehicles used to transport foods are sanitary and in proper working condition; that pallets used are of good quality; and that sanitary measures are followed in the loading and unloading of foods. “Although contamination of food product during commercial transport is relatively infrequent, the potential harm can be widespread and serious,” Farrar added.
After evaluating comments received in response to the ANPRM, the FDA will propose specific regulations. The FDA will coordinate with the US departments of Agriculture and Transportation in the rule-making process.