The U.S. Department of Agriculture Food Safety Inspection Service (FSIS) issued compliance guidelines for a systematic approach to humane handling of livestock on Wednesday. A systematic approach is a comprehensive method of evaluating how livestock enter and move through an establishment and focuses on treating livestock so as to minimize excitement, discomfort, and accidental injury. While it’s not a regulatory requirement, FSIS believes that it is the best way to comply with Humane Methods of Slaughter Act, the Federal Meat Inspection Act, and federal regulations on humane handling of livestock. This new guidance was developed to address humane handling incidents noted in a May 2013 report by the USDA Office of Inspector General (OIG). The audit found that FSIS enforcement policies don’t keep pig slaughter plants from repeatedly violating the Federal Meat Inspection Act. In addition, the report cited 10 instances of “egregious violations” of humane handling regulations where inspectors did not issue suspensions. “We have taken significant measures over the last few years to strengthen our ability to enforce humane handling laws at livestock slaughter facilities nationwide,” said FSIS Administrator Al Almanza in a statement Wednesday. “The guidance is one example of our commitment to the humane treatment of animals. We continue to implement improvements so that we have the best system possible.” FSIS reports that, as of this year, half of slaughter facilities have adopted a systematic approach to humane handling, a goal laid out in the agency’s 2011-2016 strategic plan.
The News Desk team at Food Safety News covers breaking developments, regulatory updates, recalls, and key topics shaping food safety today. These articles are produced collaboratively by our editorial staff.
Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) in key foodborne bacteria is still an area of concern in Europe, according to the latest figures.
Resistance to common antimicrobials remains widespread in foodborne bacteria such
Romanian authorities have claimed there were no recorded cases of food poisoning during the winter holidays.
The National Sanitary, Veterinary and Food Safety Authority (ANSVSA) said surveillance and control activities
Also, the International Baby Food Action Network (IBFAN) is calling for a new World Health Assembly resolution to update guidelines on contamination of powdered formula.
Mahrousa brand tahini is being recalled in Canada because of contamination with Salmonella.
This recall was triggered by Canadian Food Inspection Agency test results. There have been no reported illnesses
Made Fresh Salads Inc. of Bay Shore, NY, is recalling assorted flavors of cream cheese because they have the potential to be contaminated with Listeria monocytogenes.
The cream cheese was
A scientist at a university in England has been given funding to study a serious condition that can develop after an E. coli infection.
Dr. Patrick Walsh from Newcastle University
