March 28, 2008

USDA to broaden E. coli ruling on raw beef products

The USDA Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) looks on ruling raw beef products found with E. coli as adulterated even if they are destined for further processing that could kill the pathogen.

The agency announced that it would discuss growing evidence that may support a determination that raw beef products such as primal cuts and boxed beef contaminated with E. coli are adulterated.

The agency explained that since the proposed change is substantive, stakeholder input is necessary.

FSIS is initiating a discussion to address the USDA's position on primal cuts and boxed beef products that may lead to the conclusion that further risk mitigation actions are necessary.

Currently, raw beef products such as primal cuts and boxed beef found to be contaminated with E. coli, but are for further processing, are not considered adulterated.

FSIS spokeswoman Laura Reiser said they are considering if there are more raw beef products that should have a focus on them to prevent E. coli illnesss.