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FSIS Will Hold Meeting to Discuss E. Coli

By Pritzker | Ruohonen

In order to address the increasing prevalence of E. coli 0157:H7 in the nation’s food supply, the USDA’s FSIS has announced plans to hold a public meeting to discuss recalls and illnesses related to the deadly E. coli strain. The meeting will be held on April 9 and 10, and will include FSIS and CDC officials, legal representatives, and representatives from the food industry and consumer groups.

"The last significant positive changes in the reduction of foodborne illness and positive product tests attributed to E. coli O157:H7 occurred early in this decade but we have since hit a plateau. It is time for another series of bold, strong moves based on knowledge and science to produce further significant reductions in illnesses attributed to the products we regulate," said Under Secretary for Food Safety Dr. Richard Raymond. "We aim to prevent and not just respond to illnesses, and consumers, industry and our public health partners are critical partners in our long term strategy and we look forward to our continuing collaborative relationship to ensure food safety."

Not only will the meeting discuss the challenges associated with E. coli 0157:H7, but also non-0157:H7 Shiga Toxin-Producing E. coli (STEC).  Discussions will be held to provide an aim for regulating STEC in products under USDA jurisdiction. The meeting will focus on the 0157:H7 strain as it relates primarily to beef products, due to the increased number of beef recalls because of the bacteria.  FSIS will also discuss a checklist of beef suppliers in order to improve inspection procedures to catch contamination before it reaches the level of a massive recall.

Meeting participants and panelists will represent government, industry, academia and other constituencies to discuss research progress and potential solutions for moving forward in controlling E. coli O157:H7. There will be multiple opportunities for public comment and questions on both
days.

Full post as published by Food Poisoning Law Blog on March 28, 2008 (boomark / email).