========================================================================= Date: Sun, 1 Jun 2003 20:54:28 EDT Reply-To: EdNet@FOODSAFETY.GOV Sender: National Food Safety Educator's Network From: EDNET@FOODSAFETY.GOV Organization: National Food Safety Educator's Network Subject: EdNet Update May 2003 * * * * National Food Safety Educator's Network * * * * * * * * EdNet-L@foodsafety.gov * * * * EdNet is an electronic newsletter from the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS), and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), providing updates on food safety activities to educators and others concerned about food safety. +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ May 2003 EdNet IN THIS ISSUE RESOURCES FOR EDUCATORS * Statement by Agriculture Secretary Ann M. Veneman Regarding Canada's Announcement of BSE Investigation * FDA Statement on BSE Cow in Alberta, Canada * BSE Resources * "National Academy of Sciences Concludes Performance Standards Should Be Science-Based and Linked to Public Health Objectives" (FSIS) * "Statement on 'Scientific Criteria to Ensure Safe Food,' a Report by the National Academy of Sciences" (FDA) * CFSAN 2003 Program Priorities (FDA) * USDA Food Safety Mobile Schedule for June and July 2003 * Foodborne Illness Cost Calculator (ERS) * "Food Safety from Farm to Fork: The Role of Irradiation" Speech by Dr. Elsa A. Murano, Under Secretary for Food Safety, USDA * "USDA Releases Specifications for the Purchase of Irradiated Ground Beef in the National School Lunch Program" * Speech by Mark B. McClellan, M.D., Ph.D., Commissioner, FDA Regarding Food Security at the National Food Policy Conference (May 8, 2002) * "Food Service Safety Facts: Hand Hygiene in Retail and Food Service" (2003) * FSIS En Espanol * "Food Safety Information for Consumers in Languages Other Than English" * Web Tool for State Nutrition Status Now Available (ARS) * 'A Possible New Vaccine to KO Salmonella in Chicken Eggs' "Agricultural Research" Magazine * "Emerging Infectious Diseases" Journal, May 2003 Issue, Online * CFSAN's 2003 Grassroots Food Safety Education Program * "Managing for Safer Food: The Economics of Sanitation and Process Controls in Meat and Poultry Plants" (ERS) * "Food and Nutrition Research Briefs" April 2003 (ARS) * FDA Pesticide Program Residue Monitoring Report and Database, April 2003 * FDA, Hispanic Health Group Announce Improved Information Access * "USDA Announces Enhancements to Ground Beef Purchase Requirements" * "Steps to a HealthierUS: Putting Prevention First" Conference: Archived Webcast is Now Available * "FDA Consumer" Magazine * Study Examines Effectiveness of Dietary Recall Method (ARS) * "FDA Fact Sheet: HHS Announces New Funding Opportunity for State Food Labs" * Video of May 7, 2003 FDA "Bioterrorism Act" Meeting Available Online * USDA Requests Applications For Research Grants * FDA Requests Comments on Extension of "Food Code" Data Collection * FDA and Bureau of Customs and Border Protection Announce Steps to Streamline Collection of Information on Food Imports * FTC and FDA Crackdown on Internet Marketers of Bogus SARS Prevention Products NEWS FROM THE USDA/FDA FOODBORNE ILLNESS EDUCATION INFORMATION CENTER State-Mandated Food Safety Certification Requirements for Restaurants: A 2002 Review of States MEETINGS/CONFERENCES/COURSES * Upcoming Industry HIMP Training (FSIS) * Training Course: Food Safety Regulatory Essentials INDUSTRY INFO * "Approving Ingredients Used in the Production of Meat and Poultry Products: Use of Any Safe and Suitable Binder or Antimicrobial Agent in Meat and Poultry Products with Standards of Identity or Composition," (FSIS) * Proposed Regulations on Recordkeeping and Administrative Detention Available for Comment (FDA "Bioterrorism Act") * FDA to Open Food Bioterrorism Testing Labs * FDA Issues Draft Guidance on Using Deer and Elk Material in Animal Feed * 2002 FSIS National Residue Program, the "Blue Book" RESOURCES FOR EDUCATORS * Statement by Agriculture Secretary Ann M. Veneman Regarding Canada's Announcement of BSE Investigation http://www.usda.gov/news/releases/2003/05/0166.htm * FDA Statement on BSE Cow in Alberta, Canada http://www.cfsan.fda.gov/~lrd/fpbse.html * BSE Resources USDA's BSE Web Page: http://www.fsis.usda.gov/oa/topics/bse.htm FDA's BSE Web Page: http://www.fda.gov/oc/opacom/hottopics/bse.html * "National Academy of Sciences Concludes Performance Standards Should Be Science-Based and Linked to Public Health Objectives" In a final report entitled "Scientific Criteria to Ensure Safe Food," the National Academy of Sciences concluded that performance standards are a useful "score card" for measuring process control by food processors and recommended that efforts be made to link such scientific criteria to improvements in public health. The report was commissioned by the U.S. Congress in early 2001, to provide recommendations for the U. S. Department of Agriculture's Food Safety and Inspection Service and the Department of Health and Human Services' Food and Drug Administration on the role and appropriate use of performance standards and other scientific criteria for improving food safety. To view the press release: http://www.fsis.usda.gov/oa/news/2003/nas042403.htm To view the full report: "Scientific Criteria to Ensure Safe Food" http://www.nap.edu/books/030908928X/html/ * "FDA Statement on 'Scientific Criteria to Ensure Safe Food,' a Report by the National Academy of Sciences" The National Academy of Sciences' report, "Scientific Criteria to Ensure Safe Food," commissioned by The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and the U.S. Department of Agriculture, reinforces the progress FDA has already made in reducing and preventing foodborne illness. The report specifically attributes some of this progress to the adoption of the Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Points approach to food safety - which FDA has already applied to seafood, fresh juice, and is voluntarily applied in the dairy industry. To view the FDA Talk Paper: http://www.fda.gov/bbs/topics/ANSWERS/2003/ANS01217.html * CFSAN 2003 Program Priorities Excerpt from a letter from FDA's Center for Food Safety and Applied Nutrition (CFSAN) Director, Joseph A. Levitt: "This year, as with last, our work plan focuses heavily on ensuring the security of our country's food supply as a primary goal. With the enactment last June of the 'Public Health Security and Bioterrorism Preparedness and Response Act of 2002,' much of our effort during the current fiscal year will focus on issuing the necessary regulations to implement this statute. For example, the Food Safety and Security section of our work plan prominently features the issuance of proposals and final rules (along with necessary guidance) for the four major areas of the new legislation, namely, facility registration, prior notice, record keeping, and administrative detention. We will also continue to enhance our level of emergency preparedness, particularly our laboratory preparedness." To view the entire letter from Mr. Levitt and the CFSAN 2003 Program Table of Contents: http://www.cfsan.fda.gov/~dms/cfsan303.html * USDA Food Safety Mobile Schedule for June and July 2003 The Food Safety Mobile is traveling throughout the continental United States, appearing at State and county fairs, food events, media events, schools, libraries, grocery stores, community events, parades, festivals, health and safety expos, conventions, trade shows, FSIS District Offices, and at FSIS events in conjunction with visits and presentations by USDA officials. For 2003, FSIS has put together a core schedule for major events across the United States. See the schedule for June and July below: June 2 Hy-Vee Supermarket, Collins Road, Cedar Rapids IA June 4-6 Various local events in Superior, WI and Duluth, MN June 7 Washburn County Family Festival, Spooner, WI June 10 Summer Safety Camp, Eau Claire, WI June 12 Second Street Market, Chillicothe, IL June 13 Jewel-Osco Grocery Store, Chicago, IL June 14 Walworth County Farm Bureau Dairy Breakfast, Elkhorn, WI June 19 Juneteenth Festival, Milwaukee, WI June 20 Pick'n Save Supermarket, Milwaukee, WI June 22 Dodge County Dairy Brunch, Beaver Dam, WI June 24 Copp's Supermarket, Madison, WI June 26-28 Greene County, Illinois Agricultural Fair, Carrollton, IL July 2-6 Taste of Minnesota, St. Paul, MN July 18-20 Cheyenne Frontier Days, Cheyenne, WY July 21 Albertson's Supermarket, Boulder, CO You can request that the Mobile come to your local event, or plan a special event around the Mobile. You should make your requests for visits in 2003 based on the core schedule on the FSIS Web site. You can make suggestions now for major events in future years to be part of the Mobile's core schedule. FSIS plans to be in different regions at different times from year to year (e.g., summer 2003 in the Midwest, summer 2004 in New England, etc.). How do educators and partners request a visit from the Mobile? To request a visit for an event in your area, take a look at the 2003 core schedule on the FSIS Web site below. We look forward to partnering with you as we work together to promote public health through food safety education! http://www.fsis.usda.gov/foodsafetymobile Send your requests/suggestions in an e-mail message to: foodsafetymobile@fsis.usda.gov or call (301) 504-9605. * Foodborne Illness Cost Calculator This interactive Web-based tool allows users to estimate the cost of foodborne disease, using a variety of assumptions about the costs of treating foodborne illness, the value of lost productivity and premature death, and the number of cases of disease. There are several different approaches to determining the costs associated with illness - and several different approaches are used by Federal food safety regulators. The Foodborne Illness Cost Calculator allows users to examine the assumptions behind the different approaches and to perform a side-by-side comparison of the cost estimates generated by each approach. The goal of the Foodborne Illness Cost Model is to make the calculations behind Federal Cost-Benefit and Regulatory Impact Analyses more transparent and to improve food safety policy. http://www.ers.usda.gov/data/foodborneillness/ * "Food Safety from Farm to Fork: The Role of Irradiation" Speech delivered by Dr. Elsa A. Murano, Under Secretary for Food Safety, U.S. Department of Agriculture, before the First World Congress on Food Irradiation on May 5, 2003, Chicago, IL. http://www.fsis.usda.gov/oa/speeches/2003/em_irrad.htm * "USDA Releases Specifications for the Purchase of Irradiated Ground Beef in the National School Lunch Program" The U.S. Department of Agriculture released specifications for the purchase of irradiated ground beef for donation through the National School Lunch Program. The product will be available for schools to order in January 2004. http://www.usda.gov/news/releases/2003/05/0172.htm * Speech by Mark B. McClellan, M.D., Ph.D., Commissioner, FDA Regarding Food Security at the National Food Policy Conference (May 8, 2002) Dr. McClellan stated that because attacks are possible on our food supply, we have new challenges in protecting our food supply. "But if we respond effectively, these new threats also present new opportunities to make our foods safer as well." The entire speech can be viewed at: http://www.fda.gov/oc/speeches/2003/nfpc0508.html * "Food Service Safety Facts: Hand Hygiene in Retail and Food Service Establishments" (2003) FDA and CDC are working together to control the transmission of pathogens that can result in foodborne illnesses. Transmission of pathogenic bacteria, viruses and parasites from raw food or from ill workers to food by way of improperly washed hands continues to be one of several major factors in the spread of foodborne illnesses. FDA's "Food Code" contains the Federal recommendations for preventing foodborne illness in restaurants, grocery stores, institutions and vending locations. Local, State and Federal regulators use the FDA "Food Code" as a model to help develop or update their own food safety rules and to be consistent with national food regulatory policy. The "Food Code" contains specific hand hygiene guidance for retail and food service workers describing when, where, and how to wash and sanitize hands. Hand sanitizers, meeting specific criteria described in section 2-301.16 of the "Food Code," may be used after proper hand washing in retail and food service. http://www.cfsan.fda.gov/~comm/handhyg.html For consumer handwashing advice from FDA, click on: http://www.foodsafety.gov/~fsg/handwash.html * FSIS En Espanol This is a comprehensive index of materials available on the FSIS Web site in Spanish. http://www.fsis.usda.gov/spanish/index.htm The newest fact sheets in Spanish are: "Smoking Meat and Poultry" "Ahumado de carnes y aves" http://www.fsis.usda.gov/oa/pubs/facts_ahumado.htm English version: http://www.fsis.usda.gov/OA/pubs/facts_smoking.htm "Seniors Need Wisdom on Food Safety" "Las personas mayores necesitan ser juiciosas en materia de inocuidad alimentaria" http://www.fsis.usda.gov/oa/pubs/seniors_spanish.htm English version: http://www.fsis.usda.gov/OA/pubs/seniors.htm * "Food Safety Information for Consumers in Languages Other Than English" For an updated list of foreign language materials, visit: http://www.fsis.usda.gov/oa/pubs/languages.htm * Web Tool for State Nutrition Status An updated, online resource for checking a state's nutritional health is now available from the Agricultural Research Service. It can help nutritionists, health workers and others evaluate a community's risk for nutritional problems. It includes information on nutrient intakes, physical activity and body weight, healthy-eating patterns and food security. The resource tool provides a series of easy-to-read tables and color-coded customized maps that can be accessed by anyone on the World Wide Web. Nutritionists, policy makers and public health workers at community, county, State and National levels can create profiles to gauge whether a community is at risk for food security or other nutritional problems. http://www.ars.usda.gov/is/pr/2003/030425.htm * 'A Possible New Vaccine to KO Salmonella in Chicken Eggs,' "Agricultural Research" Magazine, May 2003 Agricultural Research Service scientists in Athens, Georgia, have been working on vaccination strategies in poultry to reduce the possibility of "S. enteritidis" getting into the egg in the first place. The scientists from the Southeast Poultry Research Laboratory developed an oil emulsion vaccine of inactivated "S. enteritidis" that provided substantial protection to hens exposed to the bacteria. To view the article: http://www.ars.usda.gov/is/AR/archive/may03/eggs0503.htm * "Emerging Infectious Diseases" Journal, Volume 9, No. 3 - May 2003, is Online To view the May issue: http://www.cdc.gov/ncidod/eid/vol9no5/contents_v9n5.htm * CFSAN's 2003 Grassroots Food Safety Education Initiatives This year's grassroots food safety education projects focus on cultural diversity and children, pregnant women, and other populations highly susceptible to foodborne illness. In addition, the emphasis on food safety training of food service personnel and the importance of food safety education in the school environment continue to grow. In cooperation with FDA's Office of Regulatory Affairs, 19 projects have been selected and will be funded by FDA's Center for Food Safety and Applied Nutrition (CFSAN). Seven projects target multicultural food service workers; three projects focus entirely on children; two projects target pregnant women, women of childbearing age and parents; four projects are general consumer food safety education projects; and three projects are train-the-trainer programs, providing training as food safety educators. To learn more about the details of these food safety education projects: http://www.cfsan.fda.gov/~dms/fscupd63.html#fse * "Managing for Safer Food: The Economics of Sanitation and Process Controls in Meat and Poultry Plants" USDA's Economic Research Service has posted a new study, "Managing for Safer Food: The Economics of Sanitation and Process Controls in Meat and Poultry Plants." The study evaluates the costs of sanitation and process control in producing meat and poultry. It shows that the costs of sanitation and process control as required by the Pathogen Reduction/Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Point rule of 1996 raised wholesale meat and poultry prices by about 1 percent. http://www.ers.usda.gov/publications/aer817/ * "Food and Nutrition Research Briefs" April 2003 The USDA's Agricultural Research Service posted the April 2003 issue of "Food & Nutrition Research Briefs" on its Web site at: http://www.ars.usda.gov/is/np/fnrb * "FDA Pesticide Program: Residue Monitoring: 1993-2001" Results in these reports continue to demonstrate that levels of pesticide residues in the U.S. food supply are well below established safety standards. http://www.cfsan.fda.gov/~dms/pesrpts.html * FDA, Hispanic Health Group Announce Improved Information Access FDA has joined with the National Alliance for Hispanic Health to help improve access to health information for Hispanic communities across the United States. Program goals include delivering information through a new toll-free help line and enhancing dialogue between the agency and Hispanic leaders on key health issues. Press release (Spanish): http://www.fda.gov/bbs/topics/NEWS/spanish/span00900.html Press release (English): http://www.fda.gov/bbs/topics/NEWS/2003/NEW00900.html * "USDA Announces Enhancements to Ground Beef Purchase Requirements" USDA's Agricultural Marketing Service (AMS) announced additional product specification requirements for ground beef items purchased for the National School Lunch and other Federal food and nutrition programs. These changes will more closely align AMS' purchase requirements with those of large volume commercial purchasers of ground beef products. To view the press release: http://www.ams.usda.gov/news/109-03.htm * "Steps to a HealthierUS: Putting Prevention First" Conference: Archived Webcast is Now Available "Steps to a HealthierUS: Putting Prevention First" was held April 15-16, 2003 in Baltimore, MD, and focused attention on the urgency of prevention and on promising approaches for tackling key challenges. To view the conference Web site and Webcast: http://www.healthierus.gov/steps/ * "FDA Consumer" Magazine The May-June issue of "FDA Consumer" is available online at: http://www.fda.gov/fdac/303_toc.html * Study Examines Effectiveness of Dietary Recall Method A human nutrition research procedure called the "dietary recall method" can be used effectively to gauge people's food consumption, according to a new study by Agricultural Research Service scientists in Beltsville, MD. http://www.ars.usda.gov/is/pr/2003/030514.htm * "FDA Fact Sheet: HHS Announces New Funding Opportunity for State Food Labs" FDA and CDC are working to expand the National Laboratory Response Network and the Food Emergency Response Network to include a substantial number of counter terrorism laboratories capable of analyzing foods. http://www.fda.gov/oc/bioterrorism/foodlab.html * Video of May, 2003 FDA "Bioterrorism Act" Meeting is Available Online A video recording of a May 7 FDA public meeting and satellite broadcast that discussed two provisions of the "Bioterrorism Act of 2002" is available on FDA's Web site. The two-hour recording is available in English, Spanish, or French. FDA held the meeting to help explain proposed regulations regarding the administrative detention of food that may pose a risk to public health and records maintenance among food companies. http://www.cfsan.fda.gov/~comm/vltbtac2.html * USDA Requests Applications For Research Grants The Cooperative State Research, Education, and Extension Service (CSREES) solicits applications for the National Research Initiative (NRI) Integrated Program for fiscal year (FY) 2003. In awarding these grants, priority will be given to projects that are: 1) multistate, multi-institutional, or multidisciplinary; or 2) projects that integrate agricultural research, extension and education. The amount available for support of these integrated programs in FY 2003 is approximately $30 million. Optional letters of intent must be received by June 30, 2003. Applications must be received by close of business on July 30, 2003. The complete request for applications, including instructions on how to submit an application, is available at: http://www.reeusda.gov/nri * FDA Requests Comments on Extension of "Food Code" Data Collection In the "Federal Register," FDA announced an opportunity for public comment on the proposed collection of certain information by the Agency. The notice solicits comments on FDA's collection of information from local, State, and tribal agencies concerning their adoption of, or plans to adopt, all or portions of the FDA "Food Code" or its equivalent by regulation, law, or ordinance. FDA has developed its model "Food Code" to assist and promote consistent implementation of National food safety regulatory policy among the local, State, and tribal jurisdictions that have primary responsibility for the regulation or oversight of retail- level food operations. Comments on the collection of information must be submitted by June 16, 2003. All comments should be identified with the docket number, 03N-0136. The complete "Federal Register" notice can be read at: http://www.fda.gov/OHRMS/DOCKETS/98fr/03-9533.pdf. * FDA and Bureau of Customs and Border Protection Announce Steps to Streamline Collection of Information on Food Imports The FDA and the Bureau of Customs and Border Protection (CBP) announced that they will streamline the implementation of the prior notice requirements of the "Bioterrorism Act" ("the Act") by allowing food importers to provide required information on food imports to both agencies using an integrated process. Under "the Act," importers will soon be required to provide "prior notice" about the content of their food imports to FDA, starting no later than December 12, 2003. Since the Act was passed last year, FDA and CBP have worked together to find ways to modify CBP's Automated Commercial System, currently used to obtain import information required by Customs. As a result of this collaboration, importers, in most circumstances, will be able to provide the required information to FDA using this existing system, making it easier for them to comply with the new law. http://www.cfsan.fda.gov/~lrd/fpbtact4.html * FTC and FDA Crackdown on Internet Marketers of Bogus SARS Prevention Products, Deceptive and Misleading Claims Must be Removed Immediately The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) and the FDA are warning Web site operators, manufacturers and distributors who suggest that their products will protect against, treat, or even cure Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome (SARS), that they are aware of no scientific proof for such claims and that the Web site operators must remove any misleading or deceptive claims from the Internet. The two agencies sent warnings to Web site operators, and e-mail solicitors, cautioning that it is against the law to make claims about SARS protection or treatment, or any other health benefit, without rigorous scientific support. The warning campaign is based on information gathered through an Internet "surf" that the FTC coordinated with the help of the FDA and the Ontario Ministry of Consumer and Business Services. Included in the review were Web sites that promised consumers would be protected from SARS if they purchased such items as personal air purifiers, disinfectant sprays and wipes, respirator masks, latex gloves, dietary supplements like colloidal silver and oregano oil, and SARS "prevention kits" that package various items together, such as gloves, masks and wipes. Web sites may be subject to State or Federal investigation or prosecution for making deceptive or misleading marketing claims that their products can treat, prevent, or cure SARS. To view the entire document: http://www.fda.gov/bbs/topics/NEWS/2003/NEW00904.html NEWS FROM THE USDA/FDA FOODBORNE ILLNESS EDUCATION INFORMATION CENTER State-Mandated Food Safety Certification Requirements for Restaurants: A 2002 Review of States In a recent study conducted for the New Jersey Restaurant Association Educational Foundation by the Food Policy Institute at Rutgers University, the status of State food safety certification requirements across the country was examined. The Institute interviewed all 50 State restaurant associations and found that 16 states have state-mandated food safety certification requirements for restaurants while 34 states had some form of voluntary food safety certification program for restaurants. The entire report may be viewed and downloaded from the Food Policy Institute. http://www.foodpolicyinstitute.org/publications.html For more food safety information, visit the USDA/FDA Foodborne Illness Education Information Center's Web site at: http://www.nal.usda.gov/foodborne/ MEETINGS/CONFERENCES/COURSES * Reminder: Upcoming Industry HIMP Training (FSIS) Industry training on the HACCP-based Inspection Models Project (HIMP) will be held June 3-5, 2003, at Texas A&M in College Station, Texas. For additional information, contact: Mark Reo at (202) 205-0010. * Training Course: Food Safety Regulatory Essentials FSIS is providing training to improve and reinforce inspectors' understanding of how to perform their food safety duties. The training - Food Safety Regulatory Essentials Training (FSRE) - is based on the recently issued FSIS Directive 5000.1, Revision 1, "Verifying an Establishment's Food Safety System." The directive outlines the full range of inspection responsibilities in relation to the HACCP/Pathogen Reduction regulation. In addition, it incorporates all recent Agency issuances (Directives, notices) related to these topics. For more information please visit: http://www.fsis.usda.gov/ofo/hrds/SLAUGH/Courses/COR.html INDUSTRY INFO * "Approving Ingredients Used in the Production of Meat and Poultry Products: Use of Any Safe and Suitable Binder or Antimicrobial Agent in Meat and Poultry Products With Standards of Identity or Composition," "Federal Register," April 29, 2003, (Vol. 68, No. 82) FSIS is amending its regulations to permit the use of any safe and suitable binder or antimicrobial agent in the production of meat and poultry products that are subject to a standard of identity or composition that provides for the use of such ingredients. The use of these ingredients must be consistent with any limitations or conditions of use prescribed in applicable FSIS or FDA regulations. This direct final rule will provide establishments with greater flexibility in formulating meat and poultry products. The rule will be effective June 30, 2003, unless FSIS receives written adverse comments that are within the scope of this rulemaking on or before May 29, 2003. For details: http://www.fsis.usda.gov/OPPDE/rdad/FRPubs/01-032DF.htm * Proposed Regulations on Recordkeeping and Administrative Detention Available for Comment Two proposed rules related to the recordkeeping and administrative detention provisions of the "Bioterrorism Act" were published in the "Federal Register" on Friday, May 9, 2003. These proposals are the last two of four proposed regulations that the Bioterrorism Act calls upon FDA to develop regarding food safety. These two proposals deal with establishing and maintaining records among food firms (Section 306 of the Act), and the administrative detention of foods that may pose a risk to public health (Section 303 of the Act). The other two proposals, concerning the registration of food facilities and prior notice of imported foods, were published in January 2003. A comment period of 60 days is being provided for the recordkeeping and administrative detention proposals. Copies of the proposals, fact sheets, and other related information are available on the FDA "Bioterrorism Act" Web page. Please refer to sections 303 and 306 of the Act listed on this Web page for this information. http://www.fda.gov/oc/bioterrorism/bioact.html * FDA to Open Food Bioterrorism Testing Labs FDA and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention are working to expand the number of counterterrorism laboratories capable of analyzing foods. This broadened network will provide effective and efficient testing of food samples to help public health officials respond to chemical or biological terrorism incidents. For more information, see the FDA Fact sheet at: http://www.fda.gov/oc/bioterrorism/foodlab.html * FDA Issues Draft Guidance on Using Deer and Elk Material in Animal Feed FDA has issued draft guidance describing the agency's recommendations about the use in animal feed of any material from deer and elk that is positive, or at high risk, for chronic wasting disease (CWD). CWD is a neurological (brain) disorder that is in the same family as bovine spongiform encephalopathy (BSE, or "mad cow disease"). FDA is asking for comments on the guidance by June 16, 2003. http://www.fda.gov/bbs/topics/ANSWERS/2003/ANS01220.html * 2002 FSIS National Residue Program, the "Blue Book" The 2002 "Blue Book" is available on the FSIS Web site at: http://www.fsis.usda.gov/OPHS/blue2002/ ARCHIVED EDNET NEWSLETTERS Interested readers can access EdNet newsletters archived since October 1997 from the Web site: http://www.foodsafety.gov/~fsg/ednet.html SUBSCRIBE Please forward this issue to colleagues and friends and tell them how to subscribe. Thank you for sharing. Web Page Addresses of the EdNet Federal Sponsors: - FDA/CFSAN: http://www.cfsan.fda.gov/ - USDA/FSIS: http://www.fsis.usda.gov/ - CDC/NCID: http://www.cdc.gov/ncidod/ncid.htm +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ Feedback (comments or suggestions on this issue) contact Peggy Barrow and Kathy Bernard Subscription problems, contact Diane Schmit LISTSERV commands (send all commands to LISTSERV@FOODSAFETY.GOV): - To subscribe, send "SUBSCRIBE EDNET-L YOUR NAME". - To unsubscribe, send "SIGNOFF EDNET-L". - To get the list of EdNet files available, send "INDEX EDNET-L". - For general LISTSERV commands, send "HELP" or "INFO REFCARD". +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ ========================================================================= Date: Mon, 30 Jun 2003 09:59:15 EDT Reply-To: EdNet@FOODSAFETY.GOV Sender: National Food Safety Educator's Network From: National Food Safety Educator's Network Organization: National Food Safety Educator's Network Subject: Ednet Update June 2003 * * * * National Food Safety Educator's Network * * * * * * * * EdNet-L@foodsafety.gov * * * * EdNet is an electronic newsletter from the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS), and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), providing updates on food safety activities to educators and others concerned about food safety. +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ EdNet June 2003 IN THIS ISSUE RESOURCES FOR EDUCATORS * Statement by Secretary of Agriculture Ann M. Veneman Regarding U.S. Beef Trade Issues (June 20, 2003) * FSIS Strengthens Regulations to Reduce "Listeria monocytogenes" in Ready-To-Eat Meat and Poultry Products * New Tool on Tap for Fighting "Listeria" (ARS) * Advice on SARS and Potential for Food Transmission (FDA) * FDA's Questions and Answers for Food Workers and Managers Regarding Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome (SARS) * FTC Charges Marketers of Seasilver with Making False and Deceptive Claims; FDA Seizes Seasilver Inventories * FTC and FDA Take New Actions in Fight Against Deceptive Marketing of Coral Calcium Supreme Dietary Supplement * Planning Against Biological Terrorism: Lessons From Outbreak Investigations "Emerging Infectious Diseases," CDC * "Foodborne Transmission of Hepatitis A --- Massachusetts, 2001," MMWR, June 20, 2003 (CDC) * For an Enjoyable Fourth, Consumers Should Practice Food Safety (FSIS) * National Food Safety Education Month (SM) (NFSEM) 2003 "Choose Your Theme!" * USDA Food Safety Mobile Schedule for July and August 2003 * White House Calls for Revised Dietary Guidelines * The U.S. and Mexico Sign a Memorandum of Understanding Enhancing the Safety and Quality of Shellfish (FDA) * Agriculture Secretary Ann M. Veneman Names Members to National Advisory Committee on Meat and Poultry Inspection * Agriculture Secretary Ann M. Veneman Announces New Resources for Food Stamp Participants * Speech by FDA Deputy Commissioner Lester M. Crawford, D.V.M., Ph.D., at American Enterprise Institute Regarding Genetically Modified Products (June 20, 2003) * FDA's Consumer Questions and Answers About BSE * FDA's CFSAN Developing Programs for 2004 * Management Changes in FDA's Center for Food Safety and Applied Nutrition * CFSAN Offers Grants for Food Safety Research * FDA Food Safety Constituent Update * "Termėmetros de cocina," ("Kitchen Thermometers") FSIS * Agriculture Secretary Ann M. Veneman Presided Over Ministerial Conference on Agricultural Science and Technology * 50 Teachers Selected for FDA/NSTA Professional Development Program in Food Science * Food Safety Employees Honored At Annual Awards Ceremony * USDA Honors ARS Employees * Transcript of Technical Briefing on BSE, June 9, 2003 * Solicitation of Input from Stakeholders on Research, Education and Extension Programs Related to Food Safety Administered by the Cooperative State Research, Education, and Extension Service and the Agricultural Research Service (USDA) * Veterinary Careers with FSIS * 2000 FSIS Annual Report to Congress NEWS FROM THE FOODBORNE ILLNESS EDUCATION INFORMATION CENTER Two Newly Revised Pamphlets are Now Available from the International Association for Food Protection (IAFP). MEETINGS/CONFERENCES/COURSES * Transmissible Spongiform Encephalopathies Advisory Committee; Notice of Meeting (FDA) INDUSTRY INFO * FSIS Issues a New IKE Scenario on Microbiological Testing Programs for "E. coli" * IKE Scenario 04-03, Update to FSIS Directive 10,010.1. "Microbiological Testing Program for 'E. coli' O157:H7 in Raw Ground Beef" * Notice of Requirements for Extension and Revision of a Currently Approved Information Collection (FSIS) * "Verifying an Establishment's Food Safety System" (FSIS) * Bovine Spongiform Encephalopathy Notice Reissued (FSIS) * Notice Issued on In-Plant Screening Tests (FSIS) * FSIS Updates "Food Standards and Labeling Policy Book" * Beverages: Bottled Water; Confirmation of Effective Date (FDA) * FDA Guidance for Industry: Standardized Training Curriculum for Application of Hazard Analysis Critical Control Point Principles to Juice Processing; Availability * Need to Complete New Registration Form and Importance of Compliance with Recordkeeping and Registration Requirements Under the Federal Meat and Poultry Products Inspection Regulations (FSIS) RESOURCES FOR EDUCATORS * Statement by Secretary of Agriculture Ann M. Veneman Regarding U.S. Beef Trade Issues (June 20, 2003) "We are continuing to work diligently to address the request from Japan and Korea to discuss changes in their import standards as a result of the discovery of a single case of BSE recently reported in Canada." To access the press release: http://www.usda.gov/news/releases/2003/06/0223.htm * FSIS Strengthens Regulations to Reduce "Listeria monocytogenes" in Ready-To-Eat Meat and Poultry Products The U.S. Department of Agriculture's Food Safety and Inspection Service announced an interim final rule requiring Federal establishments producing certain ready-to-eat (RTE) meat and poultry products to take steps to further reduce the incidence of "Listeria monocytogenes." http://www.fsis.usda.gov/oa/news/2003/lmfinal.htm To view the FSIS backgrounder: http://www.fsis.usda.gov/oa/background/lmfinal.htm * New Tool on Tap for Fighting "Listeria" A new tool could be at hand for "subtyping" strains of "Listeria monocytogenes" bacteria that cause foodborne illness, thanks to scientists with USDA's Agricultural Research Service. http://www.ars.usda.gov/is/pr/2003/030527.htm * Advice on SARS and Potential for Food Transmission (FDA) The FDA is informing the public, due to the heightened interest in Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome (SARS) and the concerns regarding the public health, that there is no information that suggests food is unsafe for consumption and can transmit SARS. To view the fact sheet, go to: http://www.cfsan.fda.gov/~dms/fssars.html * FDA's Questions and Answers for Food Workers and Managers Regarding Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome (SARS) http://www.cfsan.fda.gov/~dms/fssarsqa.html * FTC Charges Marketers of Seasilver with Making False and Deceptive Claims; FDA Seizes Seasilver Inventories The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) and the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) announced coordinated actions against two companies - both charged with promoting the dietary supplement "Seasilver" with unsubstantiated medical claims. The agencies' actions against Seasilver USA, Inc. and Americaloe, Inc. are designed to halt the fraudulent marketing of Seasilver and to seize the available inventory of the product. These actions are the latest part of Operation Cure.All, an on-going coordinated effort among the FTC, the FDA, Health Canada, Canada's Competition Bureau, and state Attorneys General to crack down on unscrupulous marketers who prey on consumers with serious illnesses. To view the entire report, see: http://www.ftc.gov/opa/2003/06/seasilver.htm * FTC and FDA Take New Actions in Fight Against Deceptive Marketing of Coral Calcium Supreme Dietary Supplement The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) has charged the marketers of a dietary supplement called Coral Calcium Supreme with making false and unsubstantiated claims about the product's health benefits. This action is part of a series of initiatives the FTC and the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) are taking against the purveyors of products with unsubstantiated health and medical claims. Detailed information can be viewed at: http://www.ftc.gov/opa/2003/06/trudeau.htm * Planning Against Biological Terrorism: Lessons From Outbreak Investigations May 2003 "Emerging Infectious Diseases," Vol. 9, No. 5, CDC CDC examined outbreak investigations conducted around the world from 1988 to 1999 by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's (CDC) Epidemic Intelligence Service. The most critical component for bioterrorism outbreak detection and reporting is the frontline healthcare profession and the local health departments. Bioterrorism preparedness should emphasize education and support of this frontline, as well as methods to shorten the time between outbreak and reporting." To view the entire report, see: http://www.cdc.gov/ncidod/EID/vol9no5/02-0388.htm * "Foodborne Transmission of Hepatitis A --- Massachusetts, 2001" "Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report," June 20, 2003 Hepatitis A virus (HAV) is transmitted typically from person to person by the fecal-oral route. Foodborne transmission occurs when an HAV-infected food handler contaminates food during preparation or when food is contaminated during harvesting or processing before reaching the food service establishment or home. This report summarizes the investigation of an outbreak of foodborne hepatitis A in Massachusetts in which a food handler with hepatitis A, who was considered unlikely to transmit HAV, was implicated as the source. The findings underscore challenges faced by local and state health departments when determining whether PEP is appropriate. http://www.cdc.gov/mmwr/preview/mmwrhtml/mm5224a2.htm * For an Enjoyable Fourth, Consumers Should Practice Food Safety Fireworks and the smell of grilling hamburgers fill the air as Americans celebrate the Fourth of July. For a safe family celebration, the United States Department of Agriculture reminds consumers to follow four simple but important safe food guidelines. To view the press release, go to: http://www.fsis.usda.gov/OA/news/2003/july4.htm * National Food Safety Education Month (SM) (NFSEM) 2003 "Choose Your Theme!" Educators, this year you are invited to choose your own theme for NFSEM 2003 this September. In the past we have developed consumer education materials that support the four key messages from the Fight BAC!(R) campaign: Clean, Separate, Cook, and Chill. This year, you are encouraged to be creative and choose from any or all of the four key messages. Gather ideas from the wealth of materials that have already been developed from past campaigns. To get started, you may review NFSEM 2002 at http://www.foodsafety.gov/~fsg/fs-mon02.html You may also access our on-line Food Safety Education and Consumer Information page on the FSIS Web site at: http://www.fsis.usda.gov/OA/consedu.htm This year FSIS has developed the "Food Safety Mobile CD ROM" that will be available only at Mobile events. The theme for food service and industry for NFSEM 2003 is "Store it. Don't ignore it." Their materials are accessible at: http://www.nraef.org/nfsem/media.asp Created by the National Restaurant Association Educational Foundation's International Food Safety Council, NFSEM an annual observance, is in its ninth year. This month long celebration focuses on the importance of food safety education during September and all year long. * USDA Food Safety Mobile Schedule for July and August 2003 The Food Safety Mobile is traveling throughout the continental United States, appearing at State and county fairs, food events, media events, schools, libraries, grocery stores, community events, parades, festivals, health and safety expos, conventions, trade shows, FSIS District Offices, and at FSIS events in conjunction with visits and presentations by USDA officials. For 2003, FSIS has put together a core schedule for major events across the United States. See the schedule for July and August: July 2-6 Taste of Minnesota, St. Paul, MN July 11-12 Grand Forks Fair and Expo, Grand Forks, ND July 18-20 Cheyenne Frontier Days, Cheyenne, WY July 22-23 Apex Community Center, Arvada, Co July 25 Albertson's Grocery Store, Boulder, CO July 26 Farmer's Market, Fort Collins, CO July 31-August 3 South Dakota State Fair, Huron, SD August 5-10 Sioux Empire Fair, Sioux Falls, SD August 11 Western Iowa Tech, Sioux City, IA August 14-17 Iowa State Fair/w 4-H, Des Moines, IA August 27-September 1 Nebraska State Fair, Lincoln, NE You can request that the Mobile come to your local event, or plan a special event around the Mobile. You should make your requests for visits in 2003 based on the core schedule on the FSIS Web site. You can make suggestions now for major events in future years to be part of the Mobile's core schedule. FSIS plans to be in different regions at different times from year to year (e.g., summer 2003 in the Midwest, summer 2004 in New England, etc.). How do educators and partners request a visit from the Mobile? To request a visit for an event in your area, take a look at the 2003 core schedule on the FSIS Web site below. We look forward to partnering with you as we work together to promote public health through food safety education! http://www.fsis.usda.gov/foodsafetymobile Send your requests/suggestions in an e-mail message to: foodsafetymobile@fsis.usda.gov or call (301) 504-9605. * White House Calls for Revised Dietary Guidelines On May 28, the White House Office of Management and Budget urged the Departments of Health and Human Services (HHS) and Agriculture (USDA) to revise the Nation's "Dietary Guidelines" to include new information that omega-3 fatty acids may reduce the risk of coronary heart disease (CHD), while trans-fatty acids may increase the risk of CHD. Since CHD kills over 500,000 Americans each year, even a small improvement in dietary habits could save thousands of lives. Revised every five years, the "Dietary Guidelines" are scheduled to be updated in 2005. The "Food Guide Pyramid" has not been updated since 1992. A copy of the letter sent to HHS and USDA may be found at: http://www.whitehouse.gov/omb/pubpress/2003-13.pdf * The U.S. and Mexico Sign a Memorandum of Understanding Enhancing the Safety and Quality of Shellfish On June 18, 2003, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and Mexico's Ministry of Health, Federal Commission for Protection from Sanitary Risks (COFEPRIS) signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) covering the safety and quality of fresh and frozen aqua cultured molluscan shellfish exported from Mexico to the United States. This MOU formally recognizes that the Mexican Shellfish Sanitation Program meets the guidelines of the National Shellfish Sanitation Program of the United States. http://www.fda.gov/bbs/topics/NEWS/2003/NEW00914.html * Agriculture Secretary Ann M. Veneman Names Members to National Advisory Committee on Meat and Poultry Inspection On June 4, 2003, Agriculture Secretary Ann M. Veneman named members to the National Advisory Committee on Meat and Poultry Inspection. "I am pleased these individuals have agreed to serve on this committee," said Veneman. "The members will provide valuable input to issues regarding meat and poultry inspection." To view the press release and names of members: http://www.usda.gov/news/releases/2003/06/0184.htm * Agriculture Secretary Ann M. Veneman Announces New Resources for Food Stamp Participants On June 5, 2003, Agriculture Secretary Ann M. Veneman unveiled Mrs. Bush's National Hunger Awareness Day public service announcement that encourages Americans to volunteer in the fight against hunger and announced the availability of new tools designed to increase access to the Food Stamp Program to help raise awareness of the resources available to those in need. To view the press release: http://www.usda.gov/news/releases/2003/06/0186.htm * Speech by FDA Deputy Commissioner Lester M. Crawford, D.V.M., Ph.D., at American Enterprise Institute Regarding Genetically Modified Products (June 20, 2003) http://www.fda.gov/oc/speeches/2003/aei0612.html * FDA's Consumer Questions and Answers About BSE http://www.cfsan.fda.gov/~comm/bsefaq.html * CFSAN Developing Programs for 2004 The Food and Drug Administration is requesting comments concerning the establishment of program priorities in the Center for Food Safety and Applied Nutrition (CFSAN) for fiscal year (FY) 2004. As part of its annual planning, budgeting, and resource allocation process, CFSAN is reviewing its programs to set priorities and establish work product expectations. Written or electronic comments should be submitted by August 4, 2003. Submit electronic comments to: http://www.fda.gov/dockets/ecomments For more information, see the "Federal Register" of June 5, 2003 (Volume 68, Number 108, Pages 33727-33728) http://www.cfsan.fda.gov/~lrd/fr030605.html * Management Changes in FDA's Center for Food Safety and Applied Nutrition (CFSAN) Joseph A. Levitt, Director of FDA's Center for Food safety and Applied Nutrition announced management changes made in the Center for Food Safety and Applied Nutrition (CFSAN). "As all of you know, food safety has been the centerpiece of our program for several years, and we organized our Center to address that priority. Since September 11th, 2001, the 'security' of our Nation's food supply has become equally important. And more recently, as we come to recognize that our country is facing an epidemic in obesity -- together with the need to pay greater attention to dietary supplements -- our 'applied nutrition' program is again coming to the forefront. The CFSAN management changes are designed to help the Center respond more rapidly, efficiently and effectively to these current Agency priorities." To view the entire announcement from Mr. Levitt: http://www.cfsan.fda.gov/~dms/cfsan603.html * CFSAN Offers Grants for Food Safety Research FDA's Center for Food Safety and Applied Nutrition (CFSAN) announced the availability of approximately $3 million in research funds for fiscal year (FY) 2003. These funds will be used to support collaborative research efforts between CFSAN and scientists, and to complement and accelerate ongoing research in four project areas in order to reduce the incidence of foodborne illness and to ensure the integrity of the Nation's food supply (including food additives and dietary supplements) and cosmetics. All awards will be subject to the availability of FY 2003 funds. Submit applications by August 11, 2003. Submit completed applications to: Rosemary Springer, Grants Management Specialist, Grants Management Staff (HFA-520), Division of Contracts and Procurement Management, Food and Drug Administration, 5600 Fishers Lane, Rockville, MD 20857, 301-827-7182. e-mail: rspringe@oc.fda.gov Hand-carried or commercially delivered applications should be sent to: Food and Drug Administration, 5630 Fishers Lane, rm. 2129, Rockville, MD 20857. Application forms are available either from Rosemary Springer or on the Internet at http://grants1.nih.gov/grants/funding/phs398/phs398.html For more information, see the "Federal Register" of June 25, 2003 (Volume 68 Number 122, Pages 37847-37850) http://www.cfsan.fda.gov/~lrd/fr030625.html * FDA Food Safety Constituent Update To view the most recent editions of the FDA Food Safety Constituent Update: http://www.cfsan.fda.gov/~dms/fscupdat.html * "Termėmetros de cocina," ("Kitchen Thermometers") "Termėmetros de cocina," the Spanish translation of "Kitchen Thermometers: Technical Information from FSIS," is now available on the FSIS Web site. Using a food thermometer is the only reliable way to ensure safety and to determine the "doneness" of meat, poultry, and egg products. To be safe, these foods must be cooked to an internal temperature high enough to destroy any harmful microorganisms that may be in the food. To view the fact sheet, go to: http://www.fsis.usda.gov/oa/pubs/kitchen_spanish.htm English version: http://www.fsis.usda.gov/OA/thermy/kitchen.htm * Agriculture Secretary Ann M. Veneman Presided Over Ministerial Conference on Agricultural Science and Technology Agriculture Secretary Ann M. Veneman traveled to Sacramento, CA, June 20-25 to host government ministers from more than 100 countries at the Ministerial Conference and Expo on Agricultural Science and Technology. The theme of this conference was the critical role science and technology can play in raising agricultural productivity in developing countries in an environmentally sustainable way to alleviate world hunger and poverty. Ministers had the opportunity to see first hand an array of exhibits and product demonstrations including conventional to cutting-edge technologies geared to small-scale and large-scale enterprises, with applications throughout the food chain. http://www.usda.gov/news/releases/2003/06/0201.htm * 50 Teachers Selected for FDA/NSTA Professional Development Program in Food Science In July, 25 middle school and 25 high schools teachers will be coming to Washington, DC to participate in the 4th FDA/National Science Teachers Association (NSTA) Professional Development Program in Food Science. This weeklong (July 7-12 for middle school and July 28-August 2 for high school) program supports the use of the FDA/NSTA supplementary food safety and food science curriculum "Science and Our Food Supply." The teachers who participate in the program will be required to conduct a daylong workshop for other teachers in their district or at statewide meetings. This requirement provides a multiplier-effect in the number of teachers reached with "Science and Our Food Supply." To date, more than 20,000 copies of the curriculum have been requested. To learn more about the "Science and Our Food Supply" program, see: http://www.cfsan.fda.gov/~dms/tchcuric.html * Food Safety Employees Honored at Annual Awards Ceremony On June 13, 2003, more than 100 Food Safety and Inspection Service employees were honored by Agriculture Secretary Ann M. Veneman for their exceptional performance in promoting food safety and protecting public health during the 57th Annual U.S. Department of Agriculture's Honor Awards Ceremony. http://www.fsis.usda.gov/OA/news/2003/honor.htm * USDA Honors ARS Employees On June 13, 2003, sixty-five Agricultural Research Service (ARS) employees are among those honored at USDA's annual honor awards ceremony--for individual or team achievements in protecting the environment, boosting job opportunities and ensuring food safety. http://www.ars.usda.gov/is/pr/2003/030613.htm * Transcript of Technical Briefing on BSE, June 9, 2003 http://www.usda.gov/news/releases/2003/06/0199.htm * Solicitation of Input From stakeholders on Research, Education and Extension Programs Related to Food Safety Administered by the Cooperative State Research, Education, and Extension Service (CSREES) and the Agricultural Research Service (ARS), June 17, 2003, "Federal Register:" Volume 68, Number 116 CSREES and ARS are planning to conduct a ``Stakeholders' Listening Session on Food Safety Research Priorities'' in Denver, Colorado. The listening session will be held on Monday, June 30, 2003, from 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. at the Radisson Hotel Denver Stapleton Plaza; 3333 Quebec Street; Denver, CO 80207. For more information about the listening session, go to: http://www.cahs.colostate.edu/fshn/foodsafety/ * Veterinary Careers with FSIS The Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) is a public health regulatory agency within the U.S. Department of Agriculture. FSIS is responsible for ensuring that the commercial supply of meat, poultry and egg products moving in interstate commerce or exported to other countries is safe, wholesome, and correctly labeled and packaged. In order to do this successfully, FSIS employs 1,100 veterinarians called Veterinary Medical Officers throughout the United States. Most of the entry-level veterinarians work in one or more private slaughter and processing plants. For more information about FSIS veterinary careers: http://www.fsis.usda.gov/vetstudents/vetcareers.htm * 2000 FSIS Annual Report to Congress The 2000 FSIS Annual Report to Congress is now available. It is available in both HTML and PDF form. http://www.fsis.usda.gov/OA/congress/congress.htm#Annual NEWS FROM THE USDA/FDA FOODBORNE ILLNESS EDUCATION INFORMATION CENTER * Two Newly Revised Pamphlets are Now Available from the International Association for Food Protection (IAFP) >>> "Before Disaster Strikes... A Guide to Food Safety in the Home" provides guidelines to help plan for a disaster and determine if household food and water supplies are safe following a natural disaster. >>> "Food Safety at Temporary Events" is a 14-step guide to keep temporary events free of the risk of food poisoning especially when the event (church supper, street fair, civic celebration and other similar events) calls for food service to be set up out-of-doors. Both of these publications can be ordered through the IAFP Web site at: http://www.foodprotection.org For more food safety information, visit the Foodborne Illness Education Information Center's Web site at: http://www.nal.usda.gov/foodborne/ MEETINGS/CONFERENCES/COURSES * Transmissible Spongiform Encephalopathies Advisory Committee; Notice of Meeting "Federal Register" Volume 68, Number 115 This notice announces a forthcoming meeting of the Transmissible Spongiform Encephalopathies Advisory Committee of the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). The meeting will be open to the public. The committee provides advice and recommendations to the Agency on FDA's regulatory issues. Date and Time: The meeting will be held on July 17, 2003, from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m., and on July 18, 2003, from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Location: Holiday Inn Select, 8120 Wisconsin Ave, Bethesda, MD, 301-652-2000. For more information, go to: http://www.fda.gov/cber/advisory/tse/tse0703.htm INDUSTRY INFO * IKE Scenario 03-03, Update to FSIS Directive 10,010.1. "Microbiological Testing Program for 'E. coli' O157:H7 in Raw Ground Beef" FSIS released a new Interactive Knowledge Exchange (IKE) scenario to help illustrate changes covered by the FSIS Notice 11-03 Update to FSIS Directive 10,010.1, "Microbiological Testing Program for 'Escherichia coli' O157:H7 in Raw Ground Beef." The Agency issued the Notice on April 18, 2003, because the prevalence of "E. coli" O157:H7 has been shown to be seasonal and begins to rise in April and May. The Agency will need to increase verification efforts at this time, according to the IKE scenario. Additionally, IKE scenario clarifies that where inconsistencies exist, FSIS Notice 11-03 supercedes FSIS Directive 10,010.1. http://www.fsis.usda.gov/OFO/TSC/ike_scenario_03-03.htm * IKE Scenario 04-03, Update to FSIS Directive 10,010.1. "Microbiological Testing Program for 'E. coli' O157:H7 in Raw Ground Beef" This IKE scenario is the second of two that were designed to illustrate the update to FSIS Directive 10,010.1 provided in FSIS Notice 11-03 published on 4/18/2003. The Notice provides updated instructions to inspection personnel on some of issues covered by FSIS Directive 10,010.1, "Microbiological Testing Program for 'Escherichia coli' O157:H7 in Raw Ground Beef." FSIS issued the Notice because the prevalence of "E. coli" O157:H7 has been shown to be seasonal and begins to rise in April and May. As a result, the Agency needs to increase verification efforts at this time. Where inconsistencies exist, FSIS Notice 11-03 supercedes FSIS Directive 10,010.1. http://www.fsis.usda.gov/OFO/TSC/ike_scenario_04-03.htm * Notice of Requirements for Extension and Revision of a Currently Approved Information Collection, May 28, 2003, "Federal Register:" (Volume 68, Number 102) In accordance with the Paperwork Reduction Act of 1995 and the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) regulations, this notice announces the Food Safety and Inspection Service's (FSIS) intention to request an extension for and revision to a currently approved information collection package (ICP) regarding Pathogen Reduction and the Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Point (HACCP) System. In addition, FSIS plans to incorporate the currently approved "Eschericha coli" ("E. coli") contamination in beef products information collection package into the revised and extended Pathogen Reduction/HACCP information collection package. Dates: Comments on this notice must be received on or before July 28, 2003. For further information or comments contact: John O' Connell, Paperwork Reduction Act Coordinator, Food Safety and Inspection Service, USDA, 300 12th Street, SW., Room 112, Washington, DC 20250-3700, (202) 720-0345. Access the notice at: http://www.fsis.usda.gov/OPPDE/rdad/FRPubs/03-014N.htm * FSIS' Handbook 5000.1, "Verifying an Establishment's Food Safety System" This directive issues FSIS Handbook 5000.1, "Verifying an Establishment's Food Safety System." The handbook provides comprehensive direction to FSIS field personnel on how they are to protect the public health by properly verifying an establishment's compliance with the pathogen reduction, sanitation and HACCP regulations. Access the directive on the Web at: http://www.fsis.usda.gov/OPPDE/rdad/FSISDirectives/5000.1Rev1.pdf * Bovine Spongiform Encephalopathy Notice Reissued On May 27, 2003, FSIS issued a notice to reiterate to veterinary medical officers that they are to pay particular attention to cattle showing signs of central nervous system disorders. In light of the recent discovery of a cow infected with bovine spongiform encephalopathy (BSE) in Canada, FSIS is reissuing this information. Access the notice at: http://www.fsis.usda.gov/OPPDE/rdad/FSISNotices/18-03.htm * Notice Issued on In-Plant Screening Tests On May 16, 2003, FSIS issued a notice to inform veterinary medical officers of the Agency's policies regarding the use of rapid in-plant screening tests for the detection of antibiotic drug residues in mature swine. Access the notice at: http://www.fsis.usda.gov/OPPDE/rdad/FSISNotices/15-03.htm * FSIS Updates "Food Standards and Labeling Policy Book" FSIS' Labeling and Consumer Protection Staff has updated the 178-page "Food Standards and Labeling Policy Book." The book contains helpful and descriptive information in a dictionary format. Download a copy of the book at: http://www.fsis.usda.gov/OPPDE/larc/PolicyBook.pdf * Beverages: Bottled Water; Confirmation of Effective Date June 9, 2003 "Federal Register:" (Volume 68, Number 110, Docket No. 03N-0068). The FDA is confirming the effective date of December 8, 2003, for the direct final rule that appeared in the "Federal Register" of March 3, 2003 (68 FR 9873). The direct final rule amends the bottled water quality standards regulations by establishing an allowable level for uranium. This document confirms the effective date of the direct final rule. DATES: Effective date confirmed: December 8, 2003. FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Paul South, Center for Food Safety and Applied Nutrition (HFS-306), Food and Drug Administration, 5100 Paint Branch Pkwy., College Park, MD 20740-3835, 301-436-1640. * Guidance for Industry: Standardized Training Curriculum for Application of Hazard Analysis Critical Control Point Principles to Juice Processing; Availability June 13, 2003 "Federal Register:" (Volume 68, Number 114) The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is announcing the availability of a final guidance document entitled ``Guidance for Industry: Standardized Training Curriculum for Application of HACCP Principles to Juice Processing'' (the guidance). The guidance advises juice processors of FDA's view that the 1st Edition of the Juice Hazard Analysis Critical Control Point (HACCP) Training Curriculum of the Juice HACCP Alliance (the standardized curriculum) is adequate for use in training individuals to meet the requirements of the juice HACCP regulation. The guidance also advises processors and educators on how the requirements of the juice HACCP regulation may be met using the standardized curriculum or alternative curricula for training individuals and on how they can view, download, or purchase the standardized curriculum. DATES: You may submit written or electronic comments on the guidance document at any time. ADDRESSES: Submit written requests for single copies of the guidance to Michael E. Kashtock, Center for Food Safety and Applied Nutrition (CFSAN) (see FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT). Include a self-addressed adhesive label to assist that office in processing your request. Submit written comments on the document to the Dockets Management Branch (HFA-305), Food and Drug Administration, 5630 Fishers Lane, rm. 1061, Rockville, MD 20852. Submit electronic comments to http://www.fda.gov/dockets/ecomments. See the SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION section for electronic access to the guidance document. FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Michael E. Kashtock, Center for Food Safety and Applied Nutrition (HFS-305), Food and Drug Administration, 5100 Paint Branch Pkwy., College Park, MD 20740-3835, 301-436-2022, FAX: 301-436-2651, e-mail: mkashtoc@cfsan.fda.gov * Need to Complete New Registration Form and Importance of Compliance with Recordkeeping and Registration Requirements Under the Federal Meat and Poultry Products Inspection Regulations FSIS intends to increase its enforcement of the registration and recordkeeping requirements to ensure that all businesses subject to the Federal Meat Inspection Act and Federal Poultry Products Inspection Act that are required to be registered with FSIS and/or to maintain business records are properly doing so. In this notice, FSIS is also informing the public that the Agency has developed a new registration form. Because this form requires that registrants provide certain information that was not required on the previous form, all parties required to register, including those that are currently registered, must complete the new form and submit it to FSIS. Parties must submit the new registration form to FSIS by March 22, 2004. For more information, see "Federal Register" of June 25, 2003 (Volume 68, Number 122). http://www.fsis.usda.gov/OPPDE/rdad/FRPubs/01-034N.htm FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Dr. Arshad Hussain, Division Director, Data Analysis and Statistical Support Staff, Food Safety and Inspection Service, U.S. Department of Agriculture, (202) 720-3219. ARCHIVED EDNET NEWSLETTERS Interested readers can access EdNet newsletters archived since October 1997 from the Web site: http://www.foodsafety.gov/~fsg/ednet.html SUBSCRIBE Please forward this issue to colleagues and friends and tell them how to subscribe. Thank you for sharing. 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