Federal Policy
FDA Food Safety Modernization Act
The FDA Food Safety Modernization Act (FSMA), signed into law by President Obama on Jan. 4, 2011 enables FDA to better protect public health by strengthening the food safety system.
Building a new food safety system based on prevention will take time, and FDA is creating a process for getting this work done. Congress has established specific implementation dates in the legislation. Some authorities will go into effect quickly, such as FDA’s new authority to order companies to recall food, and others require FDA to prepare and issue regulations and guidance documents. The funding the Agency gets each year, which affects staffing and vital operations, will also affect how quickly FDA can put this legislation into effect. FDA is committed to implementing the requirements through an open process with opportunity for input from all stakeholders.
For more information about the new law, check out these resources:
If you would like to sign up to receive free updates on the Food Safety Modernization Act, you can Get FSMA Updates by E-mail
What is the National Leafy Greens Marketing Agreement (NLGMA) and what is its purpose?
The proposed NLGMA is a voluntary program that provides a governance structure for farmers, handlers, retailers and consumers to work together and develop a practical program so that all types of farming and handling operations can effectively and efficiently comply with food safety requirements.
Marketing agreements are regulatory programs that are brought about by collective action and petition for USDA consideration by an industry. The proposed NLGMA is voluntary, not mandatory.
More information on the National Leafy Greens Marketing Agreement website.
