FMI Reiterates Commitment to Food Safety: Produce Safety and Preventive Controls Proposed Rules Released by FDA

ARLINGTON, VA – January 4, 2013 – Food Marketing Institute (FMI) today welcomes the U.S. Food & Drug Administration (FDA)’s release of two proposed food safety regulations critical to safeguarding the U.S. food supply.

FMI President and CEO Leslie G. Sarasin, said, “The proposed rules – Preventative Controls for Human Food and Produce Safety – are important components to implement the FDA Food Safety Modernization Act, which FMI supported when it was enacted by Congress and signed into law two years ago. The food retail community shares the commitment to selling safe, quality food to its customers.

“Food safety is the highest priority for FMI and its members, and FMI appreciates the opportunity to review and comment on the proposed rules, in order for the final standards to properly safeguard the risk of product contamination.”

Background for Media:

• The Preventive Controls for Human Food rule would require food companies—whether they manufacture, process, pack or store food—to put in place better controls to minimize and reduce the risk of contamination. Link to Proposed Rule and FDA Fact Sheets:  http://www.fda.gov/Food/FoodSafety/FSMA/ucm334115.htm
• The Produce Safety rule would require farms that grow, harvest, pack or hold fruits and vegetables to follow standards that are aimed at preventing contamination.  Link to Proposed Rule and FDA Fact Sheets:  http://www.fda.gov/Food/FoodSafety/FSMA/ucm334114.htm