FDA offers new safety guidelines for produce

In September, the Food and Drug Association released a two-year program priority plan with goals for the agency's Center for Food Safety and Nutrition.The plan, which covers food, dietary supplements and cosmetics.

Several of the major goals in the program are related to fresh produce issues, including reducing the incidence and risk potential of foodborne illnesses. Many of the priorities listed in the plan are required by the FDA Food Safety Modernization Act.

One of the specific goals mentioned for 2014 is the completion of projects related to the risk of microbiological hazards associated with salmonella contamination of fresh-cut tomatoes and peppers. Another goal is to establish metrics to evaluate the effectiveness of the center's existing preventive controls of foodborne illnesses.

For more details on the goals and priorities of the plan, click here.