The USDA announced on Thursday that it is retracting proposal regulations from the Biden administration aimed at restricting salmonella levels in raw chicken.
The regulations intended to mandate companies to test for contamination levels in chicken and poultry products affected by strains linked to foodborne illnesses. If a poultry facility identified critical bacteria, their inventory could be withdrawn from stores and subjected to a recall under these proposed regulations.
USDA officials stated that the rules were withdrawn due to concerns raised during the public comment period.
“FSIS [Food Safety and Inspection Service] still strives to meet its objective of minimizing salmonella-related illnesses connected to poultry products. The agency noted that the feedback highlighted several significant points warranting further consideration,” the agency indicated in its announcement. In the federal register.
The USDA mentioned that, besides the economic implications of added regulations, critics questioned the legal justification to regulate final product standards.
However, the Trump administration had maintained its regulatory framework several months following a substantial outbreak across nine states the prior year. Another incident arose in March.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) estimates that Salmonella is responsible for 1.35 million infections annually in the US.
“The USDA’s decision is deeply concerning given the multiple chicken processing plants identified as having a heightened risk for salmonella outbreaks,” commented Brian Ronholm, Food Policy Director for Consumer Reports, in a statement to The Hill.
“Coupled with recent staff and budget reductions, delays in implementing Food Traceability Rules and the Removal of essential food safety advisory committees, the administration conveys a message that consumers must fend for themselves regarding the protection from foodborne illnesses,” he added.
