Message from the 

Administrator

Now a customary element of the Food Safety and Inspection Service’s 

(FSIS) strategic performance planning process, we are releasing our 

Annual Performance Plan (APP). The APP is the agency’s operational 

guide to the activities and expected results that we are pursuing in fiscal 

year 2015. The agency has taken a holistic approach to the compilation 

of this plan by cascading its planned actions and anticipated results from 

each of its eight long-term strategic goals (as documented in the FSIS 

2011-2016 Strategic Plan). The two-part construction of this plan 

provides a comprehensive view of performance into all of the agency’s 

program-specific entities. By linking the high-level view of our work 

with the day-to-day actions, we are able to plan in a manner that allows

a thorough understanding of the integrated nature of operations, and 

further enable the collaboration that promotes the achievement of our 

corporate performance goals. Making the connection from strategic to 

operational provides managers and strategic goal leaders with a 

common-sense alignment that guides all FSIS employees

Readers of the APP will see a common theme throughout this document,

and that is the modernization of the fight against foodborne illness 

through a science-based approach. This fiscal year, we have identified 

several high-priority initiatives that weave this theme of modernization 

throughout the APP. One of these initiatives is the Salmonella Action Plan 

(SAP), which focuses on FSIS’ ambitious goal of reducing the number of 

foodborne Salmonella illnesses associated with FSIS-regulated products. 

The SAP includes several 2015 actions and timelines, such as enhancing 

Salmonella sampling and testing programs, implementing new strategies for inspection, and focusing the 

agency’s education and outreach tools on Salmonella. In addition, the agency is in the midst of implementing 

the New Poultry Inspection System (NPIS), another part of the modernization of the food safety inspection 

system that will utilize science-based methods to detect Salmonella, Campylobacter, and E. coli among other 

foodborne pathogens so we can deter illness. FSIS has also expanded its pathogentesting program to 

include Salmonella every time FSIS laboratories test for pathogenic E. coli in raw beef, which will allow the 

agency to create a new performance standard to encourage raw beef processors to further improve results. 

FSIS considers our work towards strategic planning and the APP a critical factor in ensuring the agency’s

long-term effectiveness and its efficiency of operations. We are committed to accomplishing the work 

necessary to create both an overarching and relevant Strategic Plan, as well as a yearly APP, which both 

ensure that we stay focused on our aim to reduce foodborne-related illnesses across the United States.

Alfred V. Almanza

Deputy Under Secretary

Office of Food Safety

Alfred V. Almanza was appointed as 

the Administrator of the U.S. 

Department of Agriculture’s Food 

Safety and Inspection Service on May 

6, 2010, and appointed Deputy Under 

Secretary, Office of Food Safety, on 

September 15, 2014. In this position, 

he leads FSIS and its employees in 

their mission of protecting public health 

through food safety and food defense.
3

Contents

Part I: Key Program Area Results to be Achieved by the End of FY 2015 

 

Presented by FSIS FY 2011-16 Strategic Plan Goal

Goal 1: Ensure that Food Safety Inspection Aligns with Existing and Emerging Risks 

Goal 2: Maximize Domestic and International Compliance with Food Safety Policies 

Goal 3: Enhance Public Education and Outreach to Improve Food-Handling Practices 

Goal 4: Strengthen Collaboration Among Internal and External Stakeholders to Prevent 

 Foodborne Illness 

Goal 5: Effectively Use Science to Understand Foodborne Illness and Emerging Trends 

Goal 6: Implement Effective Policies to Respond to Existing and Emerging Risks 

Goal 7: Empower Employees with the Training, Resources, and Tools to Enable Success 

 in Protecting Public Health 

Goal 8: Based on the Defined Agency Business Needs, Develop, Maintain, and Use Innovative 

 Methodologies, Processes, and Tools, including PHIS, to Protect Public Health 

 Efficiently and Effectively to Support Defined Public Health Needs and Goals

Part II: Key Program Area Results to be Achieved and Actions Undertaken

 by the End of FY 2015 

Presented by Individual Program Area

 • Civil Rights Staff (CRS) 

 • Office of the Chief Financial Officer (OCFO) 

 • Office of the Chief Information Officer (OCIO) 

 • Office of Data Integration and Food Protection (ODIFP) 

 • Office of Field Operations (OFO) 

 • Office of Investigation, Enforcement, and Audit (OIEA) 

 • Office of Management (OM)

 • Office of Outreach, Employee Education, and Training (OOEET) 

 • Office of Public Affairs and Consumer Education (OPACE) 

 • Office of Public Health Science (OPHS) 

 • Office of Policy and Program Development (OPPD) 

 • U.S. Codex Office (CODEX) 
4
5

Goal 1:

Ensure that Food Safety Inspection 

Aligns with Existing and Emerging Risks

Outcome 1. 1

Minimize existing and emerging food safety hazards through the most effective means

Performance Measure 1.1.1

Total number of Salmonella, 

Listeria monocytogenes, and 

E. coli O157:H7 illnesses from 

products regulated by FSIS. 

(Corporate Measure)

ODIFP will co-lead with OPHS and federal partners (Centers for 

Disease Control and Prevent (CDC) and Food and Drug 

Administration (FDA) the development, publication and 

communication of harmonized foodborne illness attribution 

fractions by the end of FY2015 and ODIFP will evaluate the 

impact of completed Interagency Food Safety Analytics 

Collaboration Center (IFSAC) projects on FSIS’ Corporate 

Measure 1.1.1 (All Illness Measure) to plan for any future agency 

performance measures and activities. (ODIFP Result 1)

Support the analysis needs of Agency priorities, including the New 

Poultry Inspection System (NPIS) and the Salmonella Action Plan 

(SAP) and co-lead 15 analyses with OPHS, OPPD, and OFO. 

(ODIFP Result 3)

FSIS will work to improve the understanding of known hazards 

and risks associated with FSIS-regulated commodities, from 

farm-to-table, to inform the development of agency policies to 

reduce, eliminate, or prevent consumer exposure to known 

foodborne hazards associated with meat, poultry, and processed 

egg products. (OPHS Result 1)

FSIS will address three major issues concerning Salmonella

and take actions that will help to reduce illnesses from this 

pathogen attributable to FSIS-regulated products, including: (1) 

establishing new Salmonella performance standards for 

comminuted poultry and chicken parts; (2) determining how 

verification testing for Salmonella can be improved; and (3) 

determining whether its existing policies on Salmonella are 

being effectively implemented. (OPPD Result 1)

FSIS will address two major issues concerning Shiga toxinproducing Escherichia coli (STEC) and will take actions that will 

help reduce STEC in raw ground beef and other products, 

including: (1) reviewing of FSIS test results; and (2) reviewing 

instructions in notices and directives and developing new policies, 

procedures, and guidance to industry. 

Intended “Key” Results
6

Specifically, FSIS will assess whether its verification instructions 

for non-O157 STEC and O157 are being effectively implemented 

and make necessary changes to directives, notices, and 

regulations based on the reviews. (OPPD Result 2)

FSIS’ OIEA will contribute to achieving the corporate target of a 

maximum of 373,955 illnesses attributed to Salmonella, Listeria

monocytogenes, and E. coli O157:H7 through its surveillance, 

investigative, and enforcement activities with respect to meat, 

poultry, and processed egg products distributed, transported, 

stored, and otherwise handled in commerce. (OIEA Result 2) 

FSIS will deploy approved Public Health Information System 

(PHIS) enhancements for the Domestic, Import, and Export 

functionality by September 30, 2015. (OCIO Result 1)

Manage the development and implementation of key 

components to the PHIS. (OFO Result 1)

Implement finalized inspection system regulations in FY 2015 

to ensure that food safety inspection aligns with existing and 

emerging risks and is in compliance with food safety policies. 

(OFO Result 2)

Outcome 1. 2

Resources are targeted to existing and emerging risks

Performance Measure (none) Support the analysis needs of agency priorities, including the 

NPIS and the SAP and co-lead 15 analyses with OPHS, OPPD, 

and OFO. (ODIFP Result 3)

Performance Measure 1.2.1

Percent of domestic establishments 

that meet the “for cause” Food Safety 

Assessments and monthly Hazard 

Analysis Verification decision 

criteria more than once per year. 

FSIS will focus its regulation development efforts on four major 

issues related to E. coli O157:H7 and Listeria monocytogenes

in FSIS product and Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Points 

(HACCP), including: (1) ensuring that inspection personnel are 

able to verify establishments’ validation requirements; (2) 

effectively implementing recordkeeping requirements; (3)

finalizing the Listeria monocytogenes interim rule; and (4) 

proposing effective HACCP Systems for egg product plants. 

(OPPD Result 3)

FSIS will take a risk-based approach to reducing contamination 

and preventing foodborne illness. Ensure that relatively greater 

risks to food safety will receive proportionately greater levels of 

FSIS attention. (OFO Result 3)
7

Performance Measure 1.2.2

% of importing countries 

requiring more immediate 

inspection or reinspection 

+attention more than twice 

within the previous year.

FSIS will focus its regulation development efforts on four major 

issues related to E. coli O157:H7 and Listeria monocytogenes

in FSIS product and HACCP, including: (1) ensuring that 

inspection personnel are able to verify establishments’ 

validation requirements; (2) effectively implementing record 

keeping requirements; (3) finalizing the Listeria monocytogenes

interim rule; and (4) proposing effective HACCP Systems for 

egg product plants. (OPPD Result 3)

FSIS will focus its international policy development efforts on 

two major issues concerning foreign food regulatory systems 

and export requirements. Specifically, FSIS will: (1) work on 

strengthening verification activities related to imported products; 

and (2) issue necessary instructions and guidance. 

(OPPD Result 4)

FSIS will take a risk-based approach to reducing contamination 

and preventing foodborne illness. Ensure that relatively greater 

risks to food safety will receive proportionately greater levels of 

FSIS attention. (OFO Result 3)

Outcome 1. 3

Surveillance, investigation, and enforcement are effectively 

implemented across the farm-to-table continuum

Performance Measure 1.3.1

% of priority in-commerce 

facilities (e.g., warehouses, 

distributors and transporters) 

covered by surveillance 

activities.

FSIS’ OIEA will focus 85% of surveillance resources based on 

public health risk and public health impact to achieve agency 

public health priorities to ensure that the highest risk facilities 

operate in a manner that maintains the safety of the products 

that the facilities receive and that protects those products from 

intentional contamination. (OIEA Result 3)

Performance Measure 1.3.2

% of follow-up surveillances 

resulting in compliance.

FSIS’ OIEA follow-up surveillances will produce compliance 

with all food safety requirements such that 83% of food safety 

violations documented during initial surveillances are corrected 

before follow-up surveillance. (OIEA Result 4)
8

Goal 2:

Maximize Domestic and International 

Compliance with Food Safety Policies

Outcome 2.1

Domestic- and foreign-produced products meet food safety performance standards

Intended “Key” Results

Performance Measure 2.1.1

% of broiler plants passing the 

carcass Salmonella verification 

testing. (Corporate Measure)

Support the analysis needs of agency priorities, including the 

NPIS and the SAP, and co-lead 15 analyses with OPHS, 

OPPD, and OFO. (ODIFP Result 3)

FSIS will address three major issues concerning Salmonella

and take actions that will help to reduce illnesses from this 

pathogen attributable to FSIS-regulated products. Specifically, 

FSIS will: (1) establish new Salmonella performance standards 

for comminuted poultry and chicken parts; (2) determine how 

verification testing for Salmonella can be improved; and (3) 

determine whether its existing policies on Salmonella are being 

effectively implemented. (OPPD Result 1)

Performance Measure (none)

U.S. Codex Office will successfully serve as secretariat for two 

U.S.–hosted Codex committees of particular relevance to FSIS 

and associated technical working groups: the Committee on 

Food Hygiene and the Committee on Residues of Veterinary 

Drugs in Foods. (Codex Result 2)

Performance Measure (none)

FSIS, in conjunction with foreign governments and the 27 State 

Meat and Poultry Inspection systems, will perform On-Going Foreign Equivalence verification audits and State Intrastate Meat and 

Poultry Programs “at least equal to” standard reviews to ensure 

adherence to FSIS policies and programs and take appropriate 

action if there is evidence that a country or State is failing to 

maintain equivalence or the “at least equal to” standard. 

(OIEA Result 1)

Performance Measure (none)

Implement finalized inspection system regulations in FY 2015 

to ensure that food safety inspection aligns with existing and 

emerging risks and is in compliance with food safety policies. 

(OFO Result 2)
9

Outcome 2.2

Humane handling and slaughter practices are a central focus of establishment employees as evidenced by 

the awareness of proper procedures and the implementation of a systematic approach to humane handling

Performance Measure (none) Support the analysis needs of agency priorities, including 

the NPIS and the SAP, and co-lead 15 analyses with OPHS, 

OPPD, and OFO. (ODIFP Result 3)

Performance Measure 2.2.1

% of slaughter plants identified 

during District Veterinary Medical 

Specialist (DVMS) humane 

handling verification visits as 

having an effective systematic 

approach to humane handling 

(all 4 elements of a systematic 

approach implemented). 

(Corporate Measure)

Take actions to ensure industry is implementing a systematic 

approach to humane handling. (OFO Result 4)

Outcome 2.3

Food protection and handling systems ensure protection against intentional contamination

Performance Measure 2.3.1 

% of all official establishments 

with a functional Food Defense 

Plan. (Corporate Measure)

FSIS will work to increase to 90% voluntary adoption of 

functional food defense plans by official establishments 

and develop a plan for future directions on food defense

by September 30, 2015. (ODIFP Result 4)

FSIS will deploy approved PHIS enhancements for the 

domestic, import, and export functionality by 

September 30, 2015. (OCIO Result 1)

Performance Measure 2.3.2

% of food defense practices 

implemented at in-commerce 

facilities.

Performance Measure 2.3.3

Outreach to eligible countries to 

encourage implementation of a 

system that protects product from 

intentional contamination.

FSIS will work to increase to a 90% voluntary adoption of 

functional food defense plans by official establishments and 

develop a plan for future directions on food defense by 

September 30, 2015. (ODIFP Result 4)
10

Goal 3:

Enhance Public Education and Outreach 

to Improve Food-Handling Practices

Outcome 3.1

Consumers, including vulnerable and underserved populations, 

adopt food safety best practices

Intended “Key” Results

Performance Measure 3.1.1

Average percentage of consumers 

who follow the four key food safety 

“best practices” (i.e., clean, 

separate, cook, and chill;

thermometer use.)

(Corporate Measure) 

FSIS will educate and promote consumer knowledge and 

acceptance of the four key food safety messages, with a 

particular focus on at-risk populations, explaining why they 

are at a higher risk for foodborne illnesses. 

(OPACE Result 1)

Outcome 3.2

Consumers have effective tools and information to keep “in-home” food safe

Performance Measure 3.2.1-b

Population that views FSIS’ most 

important “in-home” food safety 

messages (i.e., clean, separate, 

cook, and chill; thermometer use). 

– FSIS Electronic Media Outreach; 

Pageviews on FSIS Website.

FSIS will improve customer service by providing 

accurate and timely information to the public, internal and

external stakeholders, and the regulated community to 

support these audiences’ understanding of FSIS 

policies and programs in an effort to promote 

transparency and enhance the agency’s credibility. 

(OPACE Result 3)

OPACE, in conjunction with OPPD and OOEET, will pursue 

enhancing the safe food-handling instructions on meat and 

poultry products packaged for consumers. 

(OPACE Result 4)

Performance Measure 3.2.1-c 

Population that views FSIS’ most 

important “in-home” food safety 

messages (i.e., clean, separate, 

cook, and chill; thermometer use). 

– FSIS Electronic Media Outreach: 

YouTube Views.

FSIS will improve customer service by providing accurate 

and timely information to the public, internal and external 

stakeholders, and the regulated community to support these 

audiences’ understanding of FSIS policies and programs in 

an effort to promote transparency and enhance the agency’s 

credibility. (OPACE Result 3)

OPACE, in conjunction with OPPD and OOEET, will pursue 

enhancing the safe foodhandling instructions on meat and 

poultry products packaged for consumers. (OPACE Result 4)
11

Performance Measure 3.2.1-d 

Population that views FSIS’ most 

important “in-home” food safety 

messages (i.e., clean, separate, 

cook, and chill; thermometer use). 

– FSIS Electronic Media Outreach: 

Twitter Followers.

FSIS will improve customer service by providing accurate 

and timely information to the public, internal and external 

stakeholders, and the regulated community to support these 

audiences’ understanding of FSIS policies and programs in 

an effort to promote transparency and enhance the agency’s 

credibility. (OPACE Result 3)

OPACE, in conjunction with OPPD and OOEET, will pursue 

enhancing the safe food-handling instructions on meat and 

poultry products packaged for consumers. (OPACE Result 4)

Performance Measure 3.2.1-e 

Population that views FSIS’ most 

important “in-home” food safety 

messages (i.e., clean, separate, 

cook, and chill; thermometer use). 

– FSIS Electronic Media 

Outreach: Visitors to the USDA 

Food Safety Discovery Zone.

FSIS will improve customer service by providing accurate 

and timely information to the public, internal and external 

stakeholders, and the regulated community to support these 

audiences’ understanding of FSIS policies and programs in 

an effort to promote transparency and enhance the agency’s 

credibility. (OPACE Result 3)

OPACE, in conjunction with OPPD and OOEET, will pursue 

enhancing the safe food-handling instructions on meat and 

poultry products packaged for consumers. (OPACE Result 4)
12

Goal 4:

Strengthen Collaboration Among Internal and 

External Stakeholders to Prevent Foodborne Illness

Outcome 4.1

FSIS maximizes relationships with public health 

and food safety partners to enhance the food safety system

Intended “Key” Results

Performance Measure 4.1.1 

Research: Percentage of time 

products from three USDA 

research agencies (i.e., 

Agricultural Research Service, 

Economic Research Service, 

and National Institute of Food 

and Agriculture) used by FSIS 

and shared with stakeholders.

FSIS will work to improve the understanding of known hazards 

and risks associated with FSIS-regulated commodities, from 

farm to table, to inform the development of agency policies to 

reduce, eliminate, or prevent consumer exposure to known 

foodborne hazards associated with meat, poultry, and 

processed egg products. (OPHS Result 1)

FSIS will work to improve the understanding of emerging 

hazards and risks associated with FSIS’ regulated 

commodities, from farm to table, to inform the development 

of agency policies – to reduce, eliminate, or prevent consumer 

exposure to new foodborne hazards associated with meat, 

poultry, and processed egg products. (OPHS Result 2)

FSIS will examine existing science and available technology to 

meet its analytical needs for addressing emerging food safety 

hazards. Refine and develop tools (quantitative modeling and 

analysis tools, and new laboratory methods) to measure how 

FSIS policies improve the safety of meat, poultry, and egg 

products and to better analyze the impact of agency policy on 

public health. (OPHS Result 3)

Performance Measure 4.1.2

Key Federal partners FDA and 

CDC: Percentage of results 

from interagency collaboration 

on analytics used in FSIS policy.

ODIFP will co-lead with OPHS and Federal partners 

(FDA and CDC) the development, publication, and 

communication of harmonized foodborne illness attribution 

fractions by the end of FY 2015. ODIFP will evaluate the 

impact of completed IFSAC projects on FSIS’ Corporate 

Measure 1.1.1 (All Illness Measure) to plan for any future 

agency performance measures and activities. 

(ODIFP Result 1) 
13

Performance Measure 4.1.3

Small and Very Small Plants: 

Percentage of identified 

opportunities realized to 

improve information sharing.

FSIS will work to increase to 90% voluntary adoption of 

functional food defense plans by official establishments 

and develop a plan for future directions on food defense 

by September 30, 2015. (ODIFP Result 4) 

FSIS will work to improve the understanding of known 

hazards and risks associated with FSIS-regulated 

commodities, from farm to table, to inform the development 

of agency policies to reduce, eliminate, or prevent consumer 

exposure to known foodborne hazards associated with meat, 

poultry, and processed egg products. (OPHS Result 1)

FSIS will aim to reach, if not surpass, the 73% target of 

identified opportunities realized to improve information 

sharing to further enhance outreach to small and very 

small establishments. (OOEET Result 3)

FSIS will provide outreach and support to small-scale 

livestock and poultry producers and small and very small 

State-inspected establishments to enter into, and remain in, 

the Cooperative Interstate Shipment (CIS) program with FSIS 

to support the Department’s “Know Your Food, Know Your 

Farmer” initiative. OOEET will work with these States with 

meat and poultry inspection programs and any other 

interested parties to provide the necessary information so

that small State-inspected plants know that they have the 

option of entering into this program provided they meet the 

“same as” Federal requirements. (OOEET Result 4)

Performance Measure (none) U.S. Codex Office will promote the adoption by the 

Codex Alimentarius Commission of voluntary international 

standards, codes of hygienic practice, and other guidelines 

that align with U.S. food safety goals, public health 

regulations, and international trade goals. (Codex Result 1)
14

Goal 5:

Effectively Use Science to Understand 

Foodborne Illness and Emerging Trends

Outcome 5.1

FSIS continually improves its capacity for and use of cutting-edge science 

in policy development to better defend against public health risks

Performance Measure 5.1.1 

% of annual science agenda 

completed and number of 

agenda items initiated.

FSIS will work to improve the understanding of known 

hazards and risks associated with FSIS-regulated 

commodities, from farm to table, to inform the 

development of agency policies to reduce, eliminate, 

or prevent consumer exposure to known foodborne 

hazards associated with meat, poultry, and processed 

egg products. (OPHS Result 1)

FSIS will work to improve the understanding of 

emerging hazards and risks associated with FSIS’ 

regulated commodities, from farm to table, to inform the 

development of agency policies – to reduce, eliminate, 

or prevent consumer exposure to new foodborne 

hazards associated with meat, poultry, and processed

egg products. (OPHS Result 2)

FSIS will examine existing science and available 

technology to meet its analytical needs for addressing 

emerging food safety hazards. Refine and develop tools 

(quantitative modeling and analysis tools, and new 

laboratory methods) to measure how FSIS policies 

improve the safety of meat, poultry, and egg products 

and to better analyze the impact of agency policy on 

public health. (OPHS Result 3) 

Intended “Key” Results
15

Performance Measure 5.1.2 

% of completed science agenda 

items that meet quality standards 

for information rigor, clarity, and 

defensibility of methods used.

U.S. Codex Office will successfully serve as secretariat for

 two U.S.-hosted Codex committees of particular relevance 

to FSIS and associated technical working groups: the 

Committee on Food Hygiene and the Committee on 

Residues of Veterinary Drugs in Foods. (Codex Result 2)

U.S. Codex Office will support USDA/FSIS mission goals by 

promoting international food safety standards for maximizing 

international compliance with food safety policies and 

strengthening collaboration among external stakeholders 

to prevent foodborne illness. (Codex Result 3) 

FSIS will work to improve the understanding of known 

hazards and risks associated with FSIS-regulated 

commodities, from farm to table, to inform the development 

of agency policies to reduce, eliminate, or prevent consumer 

exposure to known foodborne hazards associated with meat, 

poultry, and processed egg products. (OPHS Result 1)

FSIS will work to improve the understanding of emerging 

hazards and risks associated with FSIS’ regulated 

commodities, from farm to table, to inform the development 

of agency policies – to reduce, eliminate, or prevent 

consumer exposure to new foodborne hazards associated 

with meat, poultry, and processed egg products. 

(OPHS Result 2)

FSIS will examine existing science and available technology 

to meet its analytical needs for addressing emerging food 

safety hazards. Refine and develop tools (quantitative 

modeling and analysis tools, and new laboratory methods) 

to measure how FSIS policies improve the safety of meat, 

poultry, and egg products and to better analyze the impact 

of agency policy on public health. (OPHS Result 3)

FSIS will address three major issues concerning Salmonella 

and take actions that will help to reduce illnesses from this 

pathogen attributable to FSIS-regulated products, including: 

(1) establishing new Salmonella performance standards for 

comminuted poultry and chicken parts; (2) determining how 

verification testing for Salmonella can be improved; and (3) 

determining whether its existing policies on Salmonella are 

being effectively implemented. (OPPD Result 1)

FSIS will address two major issues concerning STEC and will 

take actions that will help reduce STEC in raw ground beef 

and other products, including: (1) reviewing of FSIS 

test results; and (2) reviewing instructions in notices and 

directives and developing new policies, procedures, and 

guidance to industry. Specifically, FSIS will assess whether 

its verification instructions for non-O157 STEC and O157 are 

being effectively implemented and make necessary changes 

to directives, notices, and regulations based on the reviews. 

(OPPD Result 2)
16

Outcome 5.2

FSIS increases the application of cutting-edge science across the

farm-to-table supply chain to improve public health

Performance Measure 5.2.11 

% of identified public health and 

food safety gaps addressed 

across the Farm-to-Table 

Continuum.

FSIS will work to improve the understanding of known 

hazards and risks associated with FSIS’ regulated 

commodities, from farm to table, to inform the development 

of agency policies to reduce, eliminate, or prevent consumer 

exposure to known foodborne hazards associated with meat, 

poultry, and processed egg products. (OPHS Result 1)

FSIS will work to improve the understanding of emerging 

hazards and risks associated with FSIS’ regulated 

commodities, from farm to table, to inform the development of 

agency policies – to reduce, eliminate, or prevent consumer 

exposure to new foodborne hazards associated with meat, 

poultry, and processed egg products. (OPHS Result 2)

1 FSIS policies or other initiatives in FY 2015 are prospectively identified as needing research 

initiatives in the pipeline based on the FSIS policy agenda. The FSIS research priorities list 

details the priority public health and food safety knowledge gaps that need to be filled through 

targeted research. FSIS revises the list every 6 months and the FSIS Scientific Liaison 

encourages researchers to address FSIS data needs.
17

Implement Effective Policies to 

Respond to Existing and Emerging Risks

Outcome 6.1

Public health risks are mitigated through effective 

strategies based on the best available information

Intended “Key” Results

Performance Measure 6.1.1

% of food safety appeals granted 

(categories of appeals in which 

FSIS actions were misapplied or 

poorly supported and overturned 

by a higher-level supervisor).

FSIS will address three major issues concerning Salmonella

and take actions that will help to reduce illnesses from this 

pathogen attributable to FSIS-regulated products, including: 

(1) establishing new Salmonella performance standards for 

comminuted poultry and chicken parts; (2) determining how 

verification testing for Salmonella can be improved; and (3)

determining whether its existing policies on Salmonella are 

being effectively implemented. (OPPD Result 1)

FSIS will address two major issues concerning STEC and will 

take actions that will help reduce STEC in raw ground beef and 

other products, including: (1) reviewing of FSIS test results; and 

(2) reviewing instructions in notices and directives and 

developing new policies, procedures, and guidance to industry. 

Specifically, FSIS will assess whether its verification instructions 

for non-O157 STEC and O157 are being effectively 

implemented and make necessary changes to directives, 

notices, and regulations based on the reviews. (OPPD Result 2)

Performance Measure 6.1.2

% of regulated industry adhering to 

key public health-related policies 

(establishments receiving zero 

public health related 

non-compliance in a year).

FSIS will address three major issues concerning Salmonella

and take actions that will help to reduce illnesses from this 

pathogen attributable to FSIS-regulated products, including: 

(1) establishing new Salmonella performance standards for 

comminuted poultry and chicken parts; (2) determining how 

verification testing for Salmonella can be improved; and (3)

determining whether its existing policies on Salmonella are 

being effectively implemented. (OPPD Result 1)

FSIS will address two major issues concerning STEC and will 

take actions that will help reduce STEC in raw ground beef and 

other products, including: (1) reviewing of FSIS test results; and 

(2) reviewing instructions in notices and directives and 

developing new policies, procedures, and guidance to industry. 

Specifically, FSIS will assess whether its verification instructions 

for non-O157 STEC and O157 are being effectively 

implemented and make necessary changes to directives, 

notices, and regulations based on the reviews. (OPPD Result 2)

Goal 6:
18

Performance Measure 6.1.2

% of regulated industry adhering to 

key public health-related policies 

(establishments receiving zero 

public health related 

non-compliance in a year).

FSIS will support the analysis needs of agency priorities, 

including the NPIS and the SAP, and co-lead 15 analyses

with OPHS, OPPD, and OFO. (ODIFP Result 3)

Performance Measure 6.1.3

Frequency of reviews examining 

the effectiveness of FSIS policies 

regarding significant public health 

risks.

FSIS will address three major issues concerning Salmonella and 

take actions that will help to reduce illnesses from this pathogen 

attributable to FSIS-regulated products, including: (1) establishing 

new Salmonella performance standards for comminuted poultry 

and chicken parts; (2) determining how verification testing for 

Salmonella can be improved; and (3) determining whether its 

existing policies on Salmonella are being effectively 

implemented. (OPPD Result 1)

FSIS will address two major issues concerning STEC and will 

take actions that will help reduce STEC in raw ground beef and 

other products, including: (1) reviewing of FSIS test results; and 

(2) reviewing instructions in notices and directives and 

developing new policies, procedures, and guidance to industry. 

Specifically, FSIS will assess whether its verification instructions 

for non-O157 STEC and O157 are being effectively implemented 

and make necessary changes to directives, notices, and 

regulations based on the reviews. (OPPD Result 2)

FSIS will focus its regulation development efforts on four major 

issues related to E. coli O157:H7 and Listeria monocytogenes in 

FSIS product and HACCP, including: (1) ensuring that inspection 

personnel are able to verify establishments’ validation 

requirements; (2) effectively implementing recordkeeping 

requirements; (3) finalizing the Listeria monocytogenes interim 

rule; and (4) proposing effective HACCP Systems for egg product 

plants. (OPPD Result 3)

FSIS will focus its international policy development efforts on 

two major issues concerning foreign food regulatory systems 

and export requirements, including: (1) working on strengthening 

verification activities related to imported products; and (2) issue 

necessary instructions and guidance. (OPPD Result 4)

FSIS will work to improve the understanding of known hazards 

and risks associated with FSIS-regulated commodities, from farm 

to table, to inform the development of agency policies to reduce, 

eliminate, or prevent consumer exposure to known foodborne 

hazards associated with meat, poultry, and processed egg 

products. (OPHS Result 1)

FSIS will support the analysis needs of agency priorities, including the NPIS and the SAP, and co-lead 15 analyses with OPHS, 

OPPD, and OFO. (ODIFP Result 3)
19

Goal 7:

Empower Employees with the Training, Resources, 

and Tools to Enable Success in Protecting Public Health

Outcome 7.1

Each employee understands how he/she impacts public health

Intended “Key” Results

Performance Measure 7.1.1

Average score on the Annual 

Employee Viewpoint Survey 

for questions related to 

workers’ understanding of 

their impact on public health. 

FSIS will implement and support the Secretary’s initiative for 

the administrative solutions project to improve efficiency and 

effectiveness across the Department. Key targets for FY 2015 

include: reducing space usage, including a 5% reduction in file 

storage; increase efficient and effective purchasing, and 

increase use of pre-decisional involvement (PDI). (OM Result 1)

FSIS will enhance its Title VI Program by developing and 

implementing its Limited English Proficient (LEP) policy for 

federally assisted and conducted programs; as a result, FSIS 

and State employees will have a better understanding of their 

requirements to accommodate LEP persons. (CRS Result 2)

FSIS will continue to strengthen the connection of field 

employees with the agency’s mission to protect public health, 

including use of the “one team, one purpose” campaign. 

(OPACE Result 2)

Outcome 7.2 

All employees have the knowledge, tools, and resources to accomplish the FSIS mission

Performance Measure 7.2.1

% of competency gaps closed 

for targeted groups.

In partnership with OOEET, ensure that FSIS staff who have 

fiscal responsibilities possess the requisite skills and maintain 

core competencies in the area of financial stewardship. 

(OCFO Result 4)

FSIS will deploy additional or upgraded field connectivity to 160 

OFO-designated assignments using innovative methodologies, 

technologies, and partnerships by September 30, 2015. 

(OCIO Result 2)
20

Performance Measure 7.2.1

% of competency gaps closed 

for targeted groups.

FSIS will develop and validate specific leadership and 

technical competency models and guides for the five mission 

critical occupatial series (MCOS) identified by the Office of 

Personnel Management (OPM) (Economist, Human 

Resources Specialist, Auditors, Contract Specialist, and 

Information Technology Specialist). Also included are the three 

FSIS critical positions (Public Health Veterinarians (PHVs), 

Consumer Safety Inspectors (CSIs), and Enforcement, 

Investigtions, and Analysis Officers (EIAOs). (OOEET Result 1)

FSIS will strengthen the public health scientific and technical 

skills of the workforce. In 100% of target courses, OOEET 

will measure the competency of students with the goal of 80% 

meeting the competency standard after training. Outcome 

results will be measured by taking the series of actions below. 

(OOEET Result 2)

Performance Measure (none) Ensure FSIS is prepared to respond to emergencies. 

(ODIFP Result 2)

Performance Measure 7.2.2

% of all eligible FSIS employees 

with an Individual Development 

Plan (IDP) in place.

FSIS will strengthen the public health scientific and technical 

skills of the workforce. In 100% of target courses, OOEET 

will measure the competency of students with the goal of 

80% meeting the competency standard after training. 

Outcome results will be measured by OOEET 

Result 2 actions. (OOEET Result 2)

Performance Measure 7.2.3

% of all managers/supervisors that 

complete 3 hours of EEO training 

annually.

FSIS will continue its proactive efforts with respect to ensuring 

that the workforce receives EEO, Civil Rights, and Diversity 

Training and, in doing so, 75% of managers and supervisors 

will receive 3 hours of training and 85% of non-supervisory 

employees will receive 2 hours of training. (CRS Result 1) 

Pursuant to MD-715, the Civil Rights Staff will continue to 

promote its EEO emphasis across the agency, which will 

result in greater employee awareness with respect to a 

discrimination- and harassment-free workplace. (CRS Result 3)

Performance Measure 7.2.4

% of all non-managers/nonsupervisors that complete 

2 hours of EEO training annually.

FSIS will continue its proactive efforts with respect to ensuring 

that the workforce receives EEO, Civil Rights, and Diversity 

Training and, in doing so, 75% of managers and supervisors 

will receive 3 hours of training and 85% of non-supervisory 

employees will receive 2 hours of training. (CRS Result 1) 

Pursuant to MD-715, the Civil Rights Staff will continue to 

promote its EEO emphasis across the agency, which will 

result in greater employee awareness with respect to a 

discrimination- and harassment-free workplace. (CRS Result 3)
21

Outcome 7.3 

FSIS has a diverse, engaged, high-performing, and satisfied workforce 

Performance Measure 7.3.1

% of workplace injury/illness 

cases.

FSIS will endeavor to reduce injuries and illnesses as a result 

of establishing the FSIS Health and Safety Committee. OM will 

facilitate reaching the agency’s goal of reducing the 

percentage of injury/illness cases to a target of 5.9%. Key 

dates and targets include: Reduction of Office of Workers’ 

Compensation Programs (OWCP) costs by 4%; ensure wage 

filing claims meet or exceed 90% of occurrences; and develop 

comprehensive training for all FSIS employees in safety and 

health by June 1, 2015. (OM Result 2)

Performance Measure 7.3.2

Annual rate of staff vacancies.

FSIS will accomplish mission work by effectively 

implementing program requirements with human resources 

business process reengineering and hiring reform. FSIS will 

decrease cumulative days-to-hire time by 10% of the FY 14 

goal to 70 days; achieve a 25% increase in the use of 

Delegated Examining/Merit Promotion certificates, and reduce 

the overall vacancy rate at or below 4.5%. (OM Result 3)

Performance Measure 7.3.3

Ranking in the Partnership for 

Public Service’s Annual Report, 

Best Places to Work in the 

Federal Government.

FSIS will advance the cultural transformation initiative by 

continuously facilitating a cooperative, respectful, and 

communicative workplace in which employees feel valued, 

are fully developed and utilized, and knowledgeably contribute 

to agency success. Key dates and targets include: ensuring 

that 90% of workforce maintains a current telework 

agreement; publish the Labor Management action plan by 

November 30, 2014; and convert 90% of students who 

successfully complete the Student Employment Program 

to full-time employees. (OM Result 4)

Performance Measure 7.3.4 

Increase the workforce for 

Persons with Targeted 

Disabilities (FY 2015 Target 4%).

Pursuant to MD-715, the Civil Rights Staff will continue to 

promote its EEO emphasis across the agency, which will 

result in greater employee awareness with respect to a 

discrimination and harassment free workplace. 

(CRS Result 3)
22

Goal 8:

Based on the Defined Agency Business Needs, Develop, Maintain, and 

Use Innovative Methodologies, Processes, and Tools, including PHIS, 

to Protect Public Health Efficiently and Effectively and to Support 

Defined Public Health Needs and Goals

Outcome 8.1 

Continuously evaluate and seek to understand and employ new or innovative 

mission-supporting processes, methodologies, and technologies 

Performance Measure 8.1.1

% of innovative processes, 

methodologies, or technologies

for which the agency has 

established a baseline.

FSIS will examine existing science and available technology to 

meet its analytical needs for addressing emerging food safety 

hazards. Refine and develop tools (quantitative modeling and 

analysis tools, and new laboratory methods) to measure how 

FSIS policies improve the safety of meat, poultry and egg 

products and to better analyze the impact of agency policy 

on public health. (OPHS Result 3) 

FSIS will review Goal 8 baseline data and initiatives to identify 

and employ process refinements, including an additional 

performance measure for evaluating multi-year performance, 

to improve support of innovation in its public health mission by 

September 30, 2015. (OCIO Result 3)

Intended “Key” Results

Performance Measure 8.1.2

% of innovative processes, 

methodologies, or technologies 

that, once employed, are 

evaluated by the agency.

FSIS will deploy approved PHIS enhancements for the 

Domestic, Import, and Export functionality by 

September 30, 2015. (OCIO Result 1)
23

Outcome 8.2 

Implement value-added business processes, methodologies, or technologies that contribute 

to serving the FSIS mission and are applied in the appropriate areas within FSIS

Performance Measure 8.2.1

% of documented implemented 

processes, methodologies, or 

technologies, including those 

adopted in accordance with 

formally accepted requirements 

or criteria, that are evaluated to 

assess whether they meet the 

intended outcomes or otherwise 

contribute to the agency’s efforts 

to perform its mission.

Ensure FSIS is prepared to respond to emergencies. 

(ODIFP Result 2)

FSIS will identify, prioritize, and implement opportunities 

for streamlining and modifying FSIS business processes to 

achieve greater efficiency and leverage existing resources to 

the fullest extent. Prioritize business processes that are 

subject to analysis by those that are likely to produce the 

greatest impact. (OCFO Result 1)

FSIS will ensure efficient utilization of agency financial 

resources through timely planning increased transparency, 

accountability, and effective monitoring of expenditures. 

(OCFO Result 2)

OCFO will establish an evaluation process that will produce 

deliverables to improve FSIS program performance. 

Additionally, OCFO will meet FSIS Strategic Plan, Annual 

Performance Plan, Dashboard reporting, and Year End 

Review requirements in a timely and quality manner by 

ensuring the FSIS strategic planning processes and its 

products support agency progress toward supporting its 

mission and meeting its goals in reducing foodborne illness 

and promoting public health. (OCFO Result 3)

FSIS will deploy approved PHIS enhancements for the 

Domestic, Import, and Export functionality by 

September 30, 2015. (OCIO Result 1)

FSIS will deploy additional or upgraded field connectivity to 

160 OFO-designated assignments using innovative 

methodologies, technologies, and partnerships by 

September 30, 2015. (OCIO Result 2)
24
25

Civil Rights Staff

Work Contributes to 

Strategic Plan Goal(s),

Outcome(s) & Measure(s):

Key RESULTS to be Achieved and ACTIONS 

undertaken by End of FY 2015

Goal 8

Empower employees with the 

training, resources, and tools to 

enable success in protecting 

public health.

Outcome 7.2

All employees have the 

knowledge, tools, and 

resources to accomplish the 

FSIS mission.

Performance Measure 7.2.3 

Percentage of all managers/ 

supervisors that complete 

3 hours of EEO training—

annually.

Performance Measure 7.2.4

Percentage of all non-managers/

non-supervisors that complete 2 

hours of EEO training—annually.

Result 1:

FSIS will continue its proactive efforts with respect to ensuring that 

the workforce receives EEO, Civil Rights, and Diversity Training 

and, in doing so, 75% of managers and supervisors will receive 

3 hours of training; and 85% of non-supervisory employees will 

receive 2 hours of training. Continual training has proven to be 

effective in ensuring that employees, supervisors, and managers 

understand the EEO laws and regulations, which aids in making 

the agency a discrimination- and harassment-free workplace. 

Actions:

 • By November 1, 2014 – Identify all the agency-required 

 training that will be delivered using historical documents, 

 such as prior years’ compliance reports and MD-715/No 

 FEAR reports. At least one training will be the mandatory 

 training required by USDA’s Office of the Assistant 

 Secretary for Civil Rights (OASCR). Senior Executive 

 Service employees will also be required to take an 

 additional training as required by the Office of Human 

 Resources Management (OHRM). 

• By September 30, 2015 – Develop and deliver all required 

 training to the FSIS workforce. 

• By September 30, 2015 – Collaborate with OHRM to host 

 five Special Emphasis observances in headquarters. 

• By March 31, 2015 – Identify at least two field locations 

 to host Special Emphasis observances and conduct those 

 observances by September 30, 2015. 

• By September 30, 2015 – Assess the effectiveness of 

 EEO, Civil Rights, and Diversity Training via the annual 

 MD-715 report and the annual agency Head Assessment. 

Goal 7 

Empower employees with the 

training, resources, and tools to

enable success in protecting 

public health. 

Result 2: 

FSIS will enhance its Title VI Program by developing and 

implementing its Limited English Proficient (LEP) policy for 

federally assisted and conducted programs; as a result, FSIS 

and State employees will have a better understanding of their 

requirements to accommodate LEP persons. 
26

Outcome 7.1

Each employee understands 

how he/she impacts public health. 

Performance Measure 7.1.1

Average score on the Annual 

Employee Viewpoint Survey 

for questions related to 

workers’ understanding of 

their impact on public health.

Actions:

• By November 1, 2014 – Develop an executable project 

 plan that will outline on a quarterly basis, the steps the 

 Agency will take to develop and implement its LEP 

 program. 

• By September 30, 2015 – Conduct six Title VI reviews of 

 State MPI Programs and issue final reports. The reviews 

 will include recommendations on how each state can 

 establish or improve its own LEP program.

• By September 30, 2015 – Develop and deliver at least 

 8 LEP training modules to the FSIS workforce and State 

 employees. 

Goal 7 

Empower employees with the 

training, resources, and tools to 

enable success in protecting 

public health.

Outcome 7.2 

All employees have the knowledge, 

tools, and resources to accomplish 

the FSIS mission. 

Performance Measure 7.2.3 

Percentage of all managers/ 

supervisors that complete 3 

hours of EEO training—annually. 

Performance Measure 7.2.4 

Percentage of all non-managers/

non-supervisors that complete two 

(2) hours of EEO training—annually.

Outcome 7.3 

FSIS has a diverse, engaged, 

high-performing, and satisfied 

workforce.

Performance Measure 7.3.4

Increase the workforce for 

Persons with Targeted 

Disabilities (FY 2015 Target 4%).

Result 3: 

Pursuant to MD-715, the Civil Rights Staff will continue to promote 

its EEO emphasis across the agency, which will result in greater 

employee awareness with respect to a discrimination- and 

harassment-free workplace. 

Actions:

 • By April 30, 2015 – Update and issue the Administrator’s EEO, 

 Civil Rights, and Diversity policy statements emphasizing his 

 commitment to a discrimination- and harassment-free workplace 

 pursuant to MD-715 requirements. 

 

• By September 30, 2015 – Conduct four Title VII Compliance 

 reviews of program areas and/or districts and provide findings 

 and recommendations to management. 

• By September 30, 2015 – Conduct one-on-one meetings with 

 Program Areas and District Offices to discuss their respective 

 EEO and Civil Rights programs, complaint activity, and trends 

 and offer recommendations on achieving a discrimination- and 

 harassment-free workplace and addressing under-

 representation.
27

Office of the Chief 

Financial Officer

Work Contributes to 

Strategic Plan Goal(s), 

Outcome(s) & Measure(s):

Key RESULTS to be Achieved and ACTIONS 

undertaken by End of FY 2015

Goal 8

Based on the defined agency 

business needs, develop, maintain, 

and use innovative methodologies, 

processes, and tools, including 

PHIS, to protect public health 

efficiently and effectively and to 

support defined public health 

needs and goals.

Outcome 8.2

Implement value-added business 

processes, methodologies, or 

technologies that contribute to 

serving the FSIS mission and are 

applied in the appropriate areas 

within FSIS.

Performance Measure 8.2.1

% of documented implemented 

processes, methodologies, or 

technologies, including those 

adopted in accordance with formally 

accepted requirements or criteria, 

that are evaluated to assess whether 

they meet the intended outcomes or 

otherwise contribute to the agency’s 

efforts to perform its mission.

Result 1: 

FSIS will identify, prioritize, and implement opportunities for 

streamlining and modifying FSIS business processes to achieve 

greater efficiency and to leverage existing resources to the fullest 

extent. Prioritize business processes that are subject to analysis 

by those that are likely to produce the greatest impact. 

Actions:

• In partnership with OCIO for each major business process, 

 determine when the last business process analysis (BPA) 

 has been conducted and the extent to which the process is 

 accurately documented by (May 31, 2015). 

• From the inventory above, identify two major processes (or 

 significant portions thereof) which should be fully analyzed 

 and potentially re-engineered by (July 31, 2015).

• Develop a project plan and schedule for executing the two 

 business process reviews by September 30, 2015.

• Partnering with OCIO and OM, and leading the Actual Time 

 Automation Committee (ATAC), make significant progress 

 in the agency’s Signature Process Improvement initiative, 

 including implementing the updated version of WebTA 

 payroll and leave system within the timetable established 

 by the Department (by May 2015) and launch the e-devices 

 pilot (by June 2015). 

• Execute the plan for transitioning from the current “Fee Bill” 

 system to a more robust system (i.e., Reimbursable 

 Inspection Billing System (RIBS) in order to stabilize the 

 platform and integrate with Sales and Distribution (SD) 

 module of FMMI and WebTA 4.2. Test and pilot the interface 

 with RIBS to FMMI SD module by December 31, 2014. Test 

 and pilot the interface from WebTA version 4.2 to RIBS by 

 (May 31, 2015). 
28

• Enhance the existing Strategic Plan Dashboard tool by 

 developing a new Dashboard 2.0 that will provide and display 

 improved performance data and analyses functionality with a 

 more stable database platform (by September 2015).

• Ensure planning, data scrubbing, testing, coordination, training, 

 and communication strategy for ETS2 travel system- GovTrip 

 replacement (by September 2015).

Goal 8

Based on the defined agency 

business needs, develop, maintain, 

and use innovative methodologies, 

processes, and tools, including 

PHIS, to protect public health 

efficiently and effectively and to 

support defined public health 

needs and goals.

Outcome 8.2

Implement value-added business 

processes, methodologies, or 

technologies that contribute to 

serving the FSIS mission and are 

applied in the appropriate areas 

within FSIS.

Performance Measure 8.2.1

% of documented implemented 

processes, methodologies, or 

technologies, including those 

adopted in accordance with 

formally accepted requirements

 or criteria, that are evaluated to 

assess whether they meet the 

intended outcomes or otherwise 

contribute to the agency’s efforts 

to perform its mission.

Result 2: 

FSIS will ensure efficient utilization of agency financial resources 

through timely planning increased transparency, accountability, 

and effective monitoring of expenditures. 

Actions: 

• Conduct a thorough analysis of prior year budget execution 

 results for each funded component within FSIS by 

 December 31, 2014, and use the results of the analysis in 

 developing the FSIS operating budget and making adjustments 

 to base funding. Finalize the operating budget within 30 days 

 after receiving an enacted full-year appropriation.

• Improve budget execution tracking and reporting capabilities by 

 upgrading our existing “Tools” capabilities with more robust 

 capability. Finalize the project implementation plan and begin 

 executing by October 31, 2014. 

• Develop training materials and reference guides for the new 

 solution in time for incorporating those materials for end user 

 training. 

• Train Resource Managers and other users on the new solution 

 prior to “go-live.” 

• Continue to expand cost analysis activities by increasing 

 awareness and use of Return on Investment when evaluating 

 agency initiatives, validating and verifying proposals, and 

 reviewing potential studies and recommendations.

• Monitor program area budget execution monthly and conduct 

 quarterly budget execution reviews with respective fund 

 managers to ensure timely identification of shifting programmatic 

 needs in order to fully utilize funds that are apportioned and 

 available for obligation.

Result 3:

FSIS will establish an evaluation process that will produce 

deliverables improving FSIS program performance. Additionally, 

FSIS will meet its Strategic Plan, Annual Performance Plan, 

Dashboard reporting, and Year-End Review requirements in a 

timely and quality manner by ensuring the FSIS strategic 

planning processes and its products support agency progress 

toward supporting its mission and meeting its goals in reducing 

foodborne illness and promoting public health. 

Goal 7

Empower employees with the 

training, resources, and tools to 

enable success in protecting 

public health

Outcome 7.2

All employees have the knowledge, 

tools, and resources to accomplish 

the FSIS mission.
29

Performance Measure 7.2.1

% of competency gaps closed for 

targeted group.

AND

Goal 8

Based on the defined agency 

business needs, develop, maintain, 

and use innovative methodologies, 

processes, and tools, including 

PHIS, to protect public health 

efficiently and effectively and to 

support defined public health needs 

and goals.

Outcome 8.2

Implement value-added business 

processes, methodologies, or 

technologies that contribute to 

serving the FSIS mission and are 

applied in the appropriate areas 

within FSIS.

Performance Measure 8.2.1 

% of documented implemented 

processes, methodologies, or 

technologies, including those 

adopted in accordance with formally 

accepted requirements or criteria, 

that are evaluated to assess whether 

they meet the intended outcomes or 

otherwise contribute to the agency’s 

efforts to perform its mission. 

Actions:

• Conduct at least one major evaluation and two minor 

 evaluations or surveys to (1) identify the effectiveness 

 of agency programs or initiatives and (2) propose new 

 strategies or make specific recommendations to 

 address challenges identified. (September 2015)

• Document and formalize the process for reviewing and 

 vetting evaluation and survey requests that are 

 forwarded to the Enterprise Steering Board (ESB) for 

 prioritization and approval to ensure adequate analysis 

 planning has been conducted and sufficient staffing and 

 resources are available to effectively implement 

 requests. (June 2015)

• Close 40% or more of the open OIG audit 

 recommendations (24) that were beyond 1 year past 

 due and were reported in the year-end report to 

 USDA-OCFO at the end of 2014. (September 2015)

• Develop a process for communicating evaluation 

 progress and results to increase transparency 

 (May 2015). Assess the open recommendation tracking 

 process to determine whether it has resulted in 

 improvements in recommendations being closed by the 

 agreed date or within 1 year from the management 

 decision date. (September 2015) 

• Implement any recommendations and adjustments to 

 current Strategic Plan 2011-2016 as defined by ESB. 

 Start process for creating new Strategic Plan for 

 2017-2022.

• Publish APP FY 2015 and track progress throughout 

 FY2015. Develop and gain approval for FY 2016 APP in 

 time to support individual personnel standards.

• Respond timely and accurately to Department strategic 

 planning and performance reporting requirements.

• Maintain and enhance the agency performance 

 structure by monitoring the agency’s monthly and 

 quarterly reporting requirements and coordinating 

 agency performance presentations.

• Research, analyze, draft, receive clearance, and publish 

 the FSIS Performance Agenda – FY 2014 Year in Review 

 (February 2015).
30

Goal 7

Empower employees with the 

training, resources, and tools to 

enable success in protecting 

public health.

Outcome 7.2

All employees have the 

knowledge, tools, and resources

 to accomplish the FSIS mission.

Performance Measure 7.2.1

% of competency gaps closed 

for targeted group. 

Result 4: 

In partnership with OOEET, OCFO will ensure that FSIS staff who 

have fiscal responsibilities possess the requisite skills and 

 maintain core competencies in the area of financial stewardship.

Actions:

• Enhance OCFO staff professional development to develop a 

 comprehensive training program plan for areas of leadership 

 and management, in-house training sessions, externally 

 provided training, and self-paced courses (by September 2015).

• Continue quarterly meetings with the Department OCFO staff, 

 District Managers, and the Office of Management to identify 

 and implement customer service best practices (ongoing).

• Provide/coordinate internal controls training for at least one 

 governance body or program area (by July 2015).

• Design, develop, and roll out an expanded FSIS employee 

 engagement i-Impact FSIS program to promote linkages 

 between the employee’s work-life objectives, program 

 performance results, and applicable FSIS Strategic Plan 

 goals and targets; and encourage individual employee 

 suggestions as to ways the agency can achieve

 “best practices” (by September 2015).

AND

Goal 8

Based on the defined agency 

business needs, develop, 

maintain, and use innovative 

methodologies, processes, and 

tools, including PHIS, to protect 

public health efficiently and 

effectively and to support 

defined public health needs

and goals.

Outcome 8.2

Implement value-added business 

processes, methodologies, or

technologies that contribute to 

serving the FSIS mission and are 

applied in the appropriate areas 

within FSIS.

Performance Measure 8.2.1 

% of documented implemented 

processes, methodologies, or 

technologies, including those 

adopted in accordance with 

formally accepted requirements 

or criteria, that are evaluated to 

assess whether they meet the 

intended outcomes or otherwise 

contribute to the agency’s efforts

to perform its mission.
31

Office of the Chief 

Information Officer

Work Contributes to 

Strategic Plan Goal(s), 

Outcome(s) & Measure(s):

Key RESULTS to be Achieved and ACTIONS 

undertaken by End of FY 2015

Goal 1

Ensure that food safety inspection 

aligns with the existing and 

emerging risks. 

Outcome 1.1

Minimize existing and emerging food 

safety hazards through the most 

effective means. 

Performance Measure 1.1.1

Total number of Salmonella, Listeria 

monocytogenes, and E. coli O157:H7 

illnesses from products regulated by 

FSIS. (Corporate Measure)

Goal 2: 

Maximize Domestic and International 

Compliance with Food Safety 

Policies. 

Outcome 2.3 

Food protection and handling 

systems ensure protection 

against intentional contamination. 

Performance Measure 2.3.1

% of all official establishments with 

a functional Food Defense Plan.

Goal 8

Based on the defined agency 

business needs, develop, maintain, 

and use innovative methodologies, 

processes, and tools, including 

PHIS, to protect public health 

efficiently and effectively and to 

support defined public health 

needs and goals. 

Result 1:

FSIS will deploy approved PHIS enhancements for the 

Domestic, Import, and Export functionality by 

September 30, 2015.

Actions:

• FSIS will leverage its Software Development LifeCycle 

 process, as well as lessons learned from previous version 

 updates, to deploy nine approved major enhancements in 

 PHIS’ Domestic, Import, and Export functionality by 

 September 30, 2015. 
32

Outcome 8.1 

Continuously evaluate and seek to 

understand and employ new or 

innovative mission-supporting 

processes, methodologies, and 

technologies. 

Performance Measure 8.1.2

% of innovative processes, 

methodologies, or technologies 

that, once employed, are 

evaluated by the agency.

Outcome 8.2

Implement value-added business 

processes, methodologies, or 

technologies that contribute to 

serving the FSIS mission and

are applied in the appropriate 

areas within FSIS. 

Performance Measure 8.2.1 

% of documented implemented 

processes, methodologies, or 

technologies, including those 

adopted in accordance with formally 

accepted requirements or criteria, 

that meet intended outcomes or 

otherwise contribute to the agency’s 

efforts to perform its mission.

Goal 7

Empower employees with the 

training, resources, and tools to 

enable success in protecting 

public health.

Outcome 7.2

All employees have the knowledge, 

tools, and resources to accomplish 

the FSIS mission. 

Performance Measure 7.2.1

% of competency gaps closed for 

targeted groups.

Goal 8

Based on the defined agency 

business needs, develop, maintain, 

and use innovative methodologies, 

processes, and tools, including PHIS, 

to protect public health efficiently and 

effectively and to support defined 

public health needs and goals. 

Result 2:

FSIS will deploy additional or upgraded field connectivity to 

160 OFO-designated assignments using innovative 

methodologies, technologies, and partnerships by 

September 30, 2015.

Actions:

• FSIS will use site information provided by OFO to upgrade 

 bandwidth at 60 hard-wire sites by September 30, 2015.

• FSIS will upgrade field mobile connectivity leveraging current 

 and emerging technologies to 100 sites by September 30, 2015.
33

Outcome 8.2

Implement value-added business 

processes, methodologies, or 

technologies that contribute to 

serving the FSIS mission and are 

applied in the appropriate areas 

within FSIS.

Performance Measure 8.2.1 

% of documented implemented 

processes, methodologies, or 

technologies, including those 

adopted in accordance with formally 

accepted requirements or criteria, 

that are evaluated to assess 

whether they meet the intended 

outcomes or otherwise contribute 

to the agency’s efforts to perform

 its mission.

Goal 8

Based on the defined agency 

business needs, develop, maintain, 

and use innovative methodologies, 

processes, and tools, including 

PHIS, to protect public health 

efficiently and effectively and to 

support defined public health 

needs and goals. 

Outcome 8.1

Continuously evaluate and seek to 

understand and employ new or 

innovative mission-supporting 

processes, methodologies, and 

technologies. 

Performance Measure 8.1.1

% of innovative processes, 

methodologies, or technologies 

for which the agency has 

established a baseline.

Result 3:

FSIS will review Goal 8 baseline data and initiatives to identify 

and employ process refinements, including an additional 

performance measure for evaluating multi-year performance, 

to improve support of innovation in its public health mission by 

September 30, 2015.

Actions:

• Develop a new 8.2.2 performance measure to evaluate 

 multi-year performance and provide decision-making data to 

 determine if initiatives are continuing to provide documented 

 value by January 1, 2015.

• Evaluate Mission Critical Investments, current innovative 

 initiatives, and baseline data to identify and prioritize Goal 8 

 process improvements by January 1, 2015.

• Pilot process improvements with an approved Goal 8 

 initiative by May 31, 2015. 

• Integrate approved process improvements by 

 September 30, 2015.
34

Office of Data Integration 

and Food Protection

Work Contributes to 

Strategic Plan Goal(s), 

Outcome(s) & Measure(s):

Key RESULTS to be Achieved and ACTIONS 

undertaken by End of FY 2015

Goal 1

Ensure that food safety inspection 

aligns with the existing and 

emerging risks. 

Outcome 1.1

Minimize existing and emerging 

food safety hazards through the 

most effective means. 

Performance Measure 1.1.1

Total number of Salmonella, 

Listeria monocytogenes, and E. coli 

O157:H7 illnesses from products 

regulated by FSIS. 

(Corporate Measure)

Goal 4:

Strengthen collaboration among 

internal and external stakeholders 

to prevent foodborne illness.

Performance Measure 4.1.2

Key Federal partners FDA and 

CDC: % of results from 

interagency collaboration on 

analytics used in FSIS policy.

Result 1: 

ODIFP will co-lead with OPHS and Federal partners (CDC and 

FDA) the development, publication and communication of 

harmonized foodborne illness attribution fractions by the end of 

FY2015 and ODIFP will evaluate the impact of completed IFSAC 

projects on FSIS’ Corporate Measure 1.1.1 (All Illness Measure) 

to plan for any future agency performance measures and 

activities.

Actions:

• Lead the planning, organizing, and holding of any public 

 communication events to share findings from the key 

 IFSAC project on harmonized tri-agency-approved 

 simple food attribution fractions. 

• Implement updated FSIS-specific attribution fractions 

 using 2012 CDC outbreak data for Quarter 1 FY2015 

 reporting and evaluate on a quarterly basis the impact 

 of updated attribution on foodborne illness reduction for 

 FSIS-regulated products (All Illness Measure). 

• Pending availability of CDC data, utilize CDC outbreak 

 data from 2013 to develop FSIS-specific attribution 

 fractions by September 30th, 2015.

Goal 7

Empower employees with the 

training, resources, and tools to 

enable success in protecting 

public health.

Outcome 7.2

All employees have the knowledge, 

tools, and resources to accomplish 

the FSIS mission.

Performance Measure (none)

Result 2: 

Ensure FSIS is prepared to respond to emergencies. 

Actions:

• Establish a baseline of significant incidents from FSIS 

 Incident Management System ( FIMS) and track trends 

 in significant incidents in FIMS to inform agency policy 

 or preparedness plans

• Ensure emergency preparedness of agency by 

 developing and conducting three exercises 

 and/or workshops in FY 2015.
35

Goal 8

Based on the defined agency 

business needs, develop, maintain, 

and use innovative methodologies, 

processes, and tools, including 

PHIS, to protect public health 

efficiently and effectively and to 

support defined public health 

needs and goals.

Outcome 8.2

Implement value-added business 

processes, methodologies, or 

technologies that contribute to 

serving the FSIS mission and are 

applied in the appropriate areas 

within FSIS.

Performance Measure (none)

Goal 1

Ensure that food safety inspection 

aligns with existing and emerging 

risks.

Outcome 1.1

Minimize existing and emerging food 

safety hazards through the most 

effective means. 

Performance Measures 1.1.1

Total number of Salmonella, 

Listeria monocytogenes, and E. coli 

O157:H7 illnesses from products 

regulated by FSIS.

(Corporate Measure)

Goal 2

Maximize domestic and 

international compliance with food 

safety policies.

Outcome 2.1

Domestic- and foreign-produced 

products meet food safety 

performance standards. 

Result 3:

FSIS will support the analysis needs of agency priorities, 

including the New Poultry Inspection System (NPIS) and 

the Salmonella Action Plan (SAP), and co-lead 15 

analyses with OPHS, OPPD, and OFO.

Actions:

• Based on OFO prioritization of needs, test and deploy 

 at least two alerts to support field inspection personnel 

 to identify and respond to emerging risks. 

• Address and resolve at least two data quality issues with 

 the Data Quality Workgroup. 

• Conduct evaluations and analyses of FSIS data to 

 make scientific, statistical, and data-driven 

 recommendations for programmatic or policy changes 

 to ensure inspection aligns with existing and emerging 

 risks.

• Develop a baseline summary of data requests from 

 other FSIS program areas by March 31, 2015, and 

 evaluate baseline by September 30, 2015, to 

 determine future planning efforts.

• Review three existing FSIS performance measures 

 and make recommendations for measures for the next 

 FSIS Strategic Plan.
36

Performance Measure 2.1.1

% of broiler plants passing the 

carcass Salmonella verification 

testing. (Corporate Measure)

Goal 6

Implement effective policies to 

respond to existing and 

emerging threats.

Outcome 6.1

Public health risks are mitigated 

through effective strategies based 

on the best available information.

Performance Measure 6.1.2 

% of regulated industry adhering 

to key public health-related policies 

(establishments receiving zero 

public health-related 

non-compliance in a year).

Performance Measure 6.1.3 

Frequency of reviews examining 

the effectiveness of FSIS policies 

regarding significant public health 

risks. 
37

Goal 2

Maximize domestic and international 

compliance with food safety policies.

Outcome 2.3

Food protection and handling 

systems ensure protection against 

intentional contamination.

Performance Measure 2.3.1

% of all official establishments with 

a functional Food Defense Plan.

(Corporate Measure)

Performance Measure 2.3.3

Outreach to eligible countries to 

encourage implementation of a 

system that protects product from 

intentional contamination.

Goal 4

Strengthen collaboration among 

internal and external stakeholders to 

prevent foodborne illness.

Outcome 4.1

FSIS maximizes relationships with 

public health and food safety partners 

to enhance the food safety system. 

Performance Measure 4.1.3

Small and Very Small Plants: 

Percentage of identified 

opportunities realized to 

improve information sharing.

Result 4: 

FSIS will work to increase to 90% voluntary adoption of 

functional food defense plans by official establishments 

and develop a plan for future directions on food defense 

by September 30, 2015.

Actions:

• Conduct direct outreach to 50% of establishments that 

 do not have a functional food defense plan based on 

 results from the 2014 Food Defense Plan Survey. 

• Analyze vulnerability assessments, PHIS data, and 

 other available historical information to inform priorities 

 for food defense outreach, training, and guidance for 

 2016.
38

Office of Field Operations

Work Contributes to 

Strategic Plan Goal(s), 

Outcome(s) & Measure(s):

Key RESULTS to be Achieved and ACTIONS 

undertaken by End of FY 2015

Goal 1

Ensure that food safety inspection 

aligns with existing and emerging 

risks. 

Outcome 1.1

Minimize existing and emerging 

food safety hazards through the 

most effective means. 

Performance Measure 1.1.1

Total number of Salmonella, 

Listeria monocytogenes, and E. coli 

O157:H7 illnesses from products 

regulated by FSIS. 

(Corporate Measure)

Result 1:

Manage the development and implementation of key 

components to the Public Health Information System (PHIS)

that include the development and implementation of:

Actions:

• STEPS and Recall Management Application (RMA),

• New Poultry Inspection System Module,

• Catfish Inspection System Module,

• OFO management controls,

• ACE/ITDFS CBP two-way communication/functionality,

• Re-Tooling of RMA module to move employees across 

 District lines,

• Cooperative Interstate Shipment capability,

• Export module, and

• Corporate Reporting and export functionality.

Goal 1

Ensure that food safety inspection 

aligns with existing and emerging 

risks. 

Outcome 1.1

Minimize existing and emerging 

food safety hazards through the 

most effective means. 

Performance Measure 1.1.1

Total number of Salmonella, 

Listeria monocytogenes, and E. coli 

O157:H7 illnesses from products 

regulated by FSIS 

(Corporate Measure)

Result 2: 

Implement finalized inspection system regulations in FY 2015 

to ensure that food safety inspection aligns with existing and 

emerging risks and is in compliance with food safety policies.

Actions:

• Implement the New Poultry Inspection System in 20% of 

 identified facilities by end of FY 2015.

• Implement Catfish inspection 90 days after publication of 

 final rule.

• Implement Sanitary Dressing Shiga toxin-producting 

 Escherichia coli strains (STEC) policies, including ensuring 

 that training is conducted with all appropriate field personnel.
39

Goal 2

Maximize Domestic and International 

Compliance with Food Safety Policies. 

Outcome 2.1

Domestic- and foreign-produced products 

meet food safety performance standards. 

Performance Measure (none)

Goal 1

Ensure that food safety inspection aligns 

with existing and emerging risks. 

Outcome 1.2

Resources are targeted to existing and 

emerging risks. 

Performance Measure 1.2.1

% of domestic establishments that meet 

the “for cause” Food Safety Assessments 

and monthly Hazard Analysis Verification 

decision criteria more than once per year.

Performance Measure 1.2.2

% of importing countries requiring more 

immediate inspection or reinspection 

attention more than twice within the 

previous year.

Result 3: 

FSIS will take a risk-based approach to reducing 

contamination and preventing foodborne illness. 

Ensure that relatively greater risks to food safety will 

receive proportionately greater levels of FSIS attention. 

Actions:

• Meet 2015 target of 1.6% or less of domestic 

 establishments that meet the “for cause” Food Safety 

 Assessments and monthly Hazard Analysis Verification 

 decision criteria more than once per year.

• Meet 2015 target of 15% - Percentage of importing 

 countries requiring immediate inspection or reinspection 

 attention more than twice within the previous year.

Goal 2

Maximize Domestic and International 

Compliance with Food Safety Policies. 

Outcome 2.2

Humane handling and slaughter 

practices are a central focus of 

establishment employees as evidenced 

by the awareness of proper procedures 

and the implementation of a systematic 

approach to humane handling. 

Performance Measure 2.2.1

% of slaughter plants identified during 

District Veterinary Medical Specialist 

(DVMS) humane handling verification 

visits as having an effective systematic 

approach to humane handling (all 4 

elements of a systematic approach 

implemented). (Corporate Measure)

Result 4: 

Take actions to ensure industry is implementing a 

systematic approach to humane handling.

Actions:

• Meet goal of 65% of slaughter establishments 

 having an effective systematic approach to 

 humane handling.
40

Office of Investigation, 

Enforcement and Audit

Work Contributes to 

Strategic Plan Goal(s), 

Outcome(s) & Measure(s):

Key RESULTS to be Achieved and ACTIONS 

undertaken by End of FY 2015

Goal 2 

Maximize Domestic and 

International Compliance with 

Food Safety Policies.

Outcome 2.1

Domestic- and foreign-produced 

products meet food safety 

performance standards.

Performance Measure (none)

Result 1 

FSIS, in conjunction with foreign governments and the 27 State 

Meat and Poultry Inspection systems, will perform On-Going 

Foreign Equivalence verification audits and State Intrastate Meat 

and Poultry Programs “at least equal to” standard reviews to 

ensure adherence to FSIS policies and programs and take 

appropriate action if there is evidence that a country or State is 

failing to maintain equivalence or “at least equal to” standard.

Actions:

• On-site reviews are performed triennially (once every 3 years).

• Annual self-assessment reviews are performed and reviewed in 

 95% of the 27 State MPI programs by September 30, 2015.

• Quarterly New Issuance (QNI) reviews are performed each 

 quarter in 95% of the 27 State MPI programs that ensure 

 States are staying abreast and implementing analogous types 

 of program and inspection-related methods and instructions 

 (directives and notices) as the Federal program. 

• By December 30, 2014, publish annual individual review and 

 determination reports and the annual comprehensive review 

 summary report of State reviews. 

• By June 30, 2015, a determination will be made of which 

 countries to audit in FY 2016.

• Conduct an on-site audit of 80% of the scheduled FY 2015 

 country audits.

Result 2 

FSIS’ OIEA will contribute to achieving the corporate target of a 

maximum of 373,955 illnesses attributed to Salmonella, 

Listeria monocytogenes, and E. coli O157:H7 through its 

surveillance, investigative, and enforcement activities with 

respect to meat, poultry. and processed egg products distributed, 

transported, stored, and, otherwise, handled in commerce. 

Actions:

• Ensure 82% of investigative cases address food 

 safety violations.

Goal 1 

Ensure that food safety inspection 

aligns with existing and emerging 

risks. 

Outcome 1.1

Minimize existing and emerging 

food safety hazards through the 

most effective means. 
41

Performance Measure 1.1.1

Total number of Salmonella, Listeria 

monocytogenes, and E. coli O157:H7 

illnesses from products regulated by 

FSIS. (Corporate Measure)

• Ensure 85% of enforcement actions (administrative, 

 criminal, or civil) address food safety violations and 

 deter future ones.

• Ensure field supervisors and managers monitor 

 In-Commerce System (ICS) data and reports on a regular 

 basis; then provide guidance and resources as needed.

• Ensure an investigative plan is developed, published, and 

 activated within 18 hours of a foodborne illness outbreak 

 declaration or for food safety or food defense events that 

 include natural disasters, intentional contamination, or 

 significant economic adulteration.

Goal 1

Ensure that food safety inspection 

aligns with existing and emerging 

risks. 

Outcome 1.3

Surveillance, investigation, and 

enforcement are effectively 

implemented across the 

Farm-to-Table Continuum. 

Performance Measure 1.3.1

% of priority in-commerce facilities 

(e.g., warehouses, distributors, and 

transporters) covered by surveillance 

activities.

Result 3

FSIS’ OIEA will focus 85% of surveillance resources based 

on public health risk and public health impact to achieve 

agency public health priorities to ensure that the highest risk 

facilities operate in a manner that maintains the safety of the 

products that the facilities receive and protects those 

products from intentional contamination. 

To focus surveillance resources on in-commerce businesses 

with the highest risk, FSIS established a tier structure based 

on business type and public health risk. The tier structure 

ranks in-commerce business types based on five risk 

considerations: food safety hazard; food defense hazard; 

product volume; consumer susceptibility; and surveillance 

by other regulatory authorities.

Highest risk facilities are distributors, warehouses, and 

transporters. All have significant inherent food safety 

hazards; handle large volumes of meat, poultry, and 

processed egg products; and receive minimal 

surveillance oversight by other regulatory agencies.

Actions:

• Ensure OIEA investigators allocate 85% of agency 

 personnel and resources to the highest risk facilities.

• Ensure field supervisors and managers monitor ICS data 

 and reports on a regular basis; then provide guidance and 

 resources as needed.
42

Goal 1 

Ensure that food safety inspection 

aligns with existing and emerging 

risks. 

Outcome 1.3

Surveillance, investigation, and 

enforcement are effectively 

implemented across the 

Farm-to-Table Continuum. 

Result 4

FSIS’ OIEA follow-up surveillances will produce compliance 

with all food safety requirements such that 83% of food safety 

violations documented during initial surveillances are corrected 

before follow-up surveillance. These surveillance activities are 

to verify: compliance with FSIS statutory and regulatory 

requirements; meat, poultry, and egg products prepared, stored, 

transported, sold, offered for sale or transportation, imported, or 

exported in commerce are safe, wholesome, and correctly labeled 

and packaged; and in compliance with applicable criminal, civil, or 

administrative orders, or other binding case dispositions.

Performance Measure 1. 3.2

% of follow-up surveillances 

resulting in compliance.

Actions:

• Ensure field supervisors and managers verify ICS data shows 

 at least 83% of food safety violations documented during initial 

 surveillances are corrected on an annual basis.
43

Office of Management 

Work Contributes to 

Strategic Plan Goal(s), 

Outcome(s) & Measure(s):

Key RESULTS to be Achieved and ACTIONS 

undertaken by End of FY 2015

Goal 7

Empower employees with the 

training, resources, and tools to 

enable success in protecting 

public health.

Outcome 7.1

Each employee understands 

how he/she impacts public health.

Performance Measure 7.1.1

Average score on the Annual 

Employee Viewpoint Survey for 

questions related to workers’ 

understanding of their impact 

on public health.

Result 1: 

FSIS will implement and support the Secretary’s initiative for 

the administrative solutions project to improve efficiency and 

effectiveness across the Department. Key targets for 

FY 2015 include: reducing space usage, including a 5% 

reduction in file storage; increase efficient and effective 

purchasing; and increase use of PDI.

FSIS will establish a framework to provide world-class 

administrative services, specifically human resources; safety 

and health; contracting, leasing, and procurement that are 

customer-focused, results-oriented, and promote innovation 

and efficiency in a national service center/center of 

excellence delivery model. The framework will include a 

service catalog, service level agreements, performance 

metrics, and customer feedback mechanisms that will 

integrate USDA efforts to streamline processes and avoid/

reduce costs. 

 

Actions:

• Reduce working capital fund by eliminating obsolete 

 forms stored at the Beltsville Service Center by 

 September 1, 2015.

• Reduce by 5% the FY 2014 baseline 9,100 square feet of 

 file space devoted to records storage by 

 September 1, 2015.

• Increase the percentage of employees utilizing HSPD-12 

 Linc Pass credential for regular logical access to 70% from 

 the baseline of 50%.

• Increase participation in Smart Space by developing 

 comprehensive smart space action plans for three District 

 Office locations by August 1, 2015.

• Increase efficient and effective purchasing by limiting 

 high-risk contracts to no more than 10% of total value of 

 FY15 contract awards. 

• Increase the number of PDI sessions with the National 

 Joint Council (NJC) by two (from four to six) by 

 September 1, 2015.

• Ensure no material weaknesses reportable for A-123/ 

 financial audit, and no repeat findings exist for FY 2015 

 in contracting, procurement, or human resource 
44

 transaction processing; and conduct periodic HR and 

 procurement program reviews at least once a month and 

 address any identified systemic issues before the end of every 

 quarter. 

• Improve access for socially disadvantaged contractors, 

 including veteran-owned, woman-owned, America 

 Indian-owned, and small businesses to USDA programs to 

 represent 51% of contract awards in FY15, measured 

 using the Federal procurement Data System (FPDS).

• 100% compliance for applicable contracts to have sustainability 

 clause when delivery or specific to the use of USDA-designated 

 items is required.

Goal 7

Empower employees with the 

training, resources, and tools to 

enable success in protecting 

public health.

Outcome 7.3

FSIS has a diverse, engaged, 

high-performing, and satisfied 

workforce.

Performance Measure 7.3.1

% of workplace injury/illness cases.

Result 2: 

FSIS will endeavor to reduce injuries and illnesses as a result 

of establishing the FSIS Health and Safety Committee. OM will 

facilitate reaching the agency’s goal of reducing the percentage 

of injury/illness cases to a target of 5.9%. Key dates and targets 

include: reduction of OWCP costs by 4%; ensure wage filing 

claims meet or exceed 90% of occurrences; and develop 

comprehensive training for all FSIS employees in safety and 

health by June 1, 2015. 

Actions:

• Environmental, Safety and Health Group (ESHG) will provide 

 monthly injury and illness reports that will include year-to-year 

 analysis through the FSIS safety Intranet site and hold 

 quarterly meetings with the safety liaisons from both OFO and 

 the NJC to review safety and occupational health issues and 

 seek solutions. 

• Develop comprehensive guidance and training material on 

 OSHA recordkeeping for District management and circuit 

 safety committees by June 1, 2015, and rewrite FSIS 

 Directive 4791.1, Basic Occupational Safety and Health 

 Program, by September 1, 2015.

• Implement a comprehension survey by November 1, 2014, to 

 be used for every Workplace Violence Prevent (WVP) training 

 session to determine effectiveness. By September 1, 2015, 

 establish a baseline metric of employee and supervisory under

 standing of roles and responsibilities in workplace violence. 

• Reduce Office of Worker’s Compensation Program (OWCP) 

 costs by 4% by August 30, 2015, from 2009 Department of 

 Labor (DOL) baseline through a complete assessment of 

 OWCP cases identifying opportunities for increasing the 

 number of employees returning to work or the termination of 

 benefits. 

• Maintain filing of wage-loss claims (form CA-7) to meet or 

 exceed 90% in FY15. 
45

• FSIS will establish monthly and quarterly wellness 

 initiatives and conduct a baseline survey of customer 

 satisfaction by instituting pre- and post-survey questions 

 at all training venues by October 30, 2014.

• FSIS will establish a workplace health and wellness 

 committee consisting of employees across the agency 

 who will partake in efforts to develop and implement a 

 program that is focused on creating a cost-efficient 

 healthy environment, advocating health-specific policy, 

 and planning/executing work/life wellness activities by 

 March 1, 2015.

Goal 7

Empower employees with the 

training, resources, and tools to 

enable success in protecting 

public health.

Outcome 7.3

FSIS has a diverse, engaged, 

high-performing, and satisfied 

workforce.

Performance Measure 7.3.2

Annual rate of staff vacancies.

Result 3: 

FSIS will accomplish mission work by effectively 

implementing program requirements with human resources 

business process reengineering and hiring reform. FSIS will 

decrease cumulative days to hire time by 10% of FY 2014 

goal to 70 days, achieve a 25% increase in the use of 

Delegated Examining/Merit Promotion certificates, and 

reduce overall vacancy rate at or below 4.5%. 

Actions:

• Ensure FSIS employees are medically fit to perform 

 inspection activities. Apply revised medical qualification 

 standards to 100% of the current workforce by 

 September 1, 2015.

• Develop a more effective and efficient method of 

 acquiring data from FSIS programs so that 90% of 

 performance standards for eligible employees are in 

 place by November 1, 2014, received on file in the Office 

 of Management/HRO by January 1, 2015, and receive a 

 mid-year progress review by April 15, 2015.

• Collaborate with OOEET to develop and track 

 performance management training for non-supervisory 

 employees in accordance with Departmental Regulation 

 4040-430, Performance Management, so that 70% or 

 more of employees have such training by July 1, 2015.

• Conduct a comprehensive review of the FSIS Recognition 

 Program and implement any approved recommendations 

 to streamline the program no later than 

 September 1, 2015.

• Reduce the number of unused hiring selection certificates 

 in the Agency by 1%.

• Reduce the Human Resources vacancy rate to no more 

 than 3% annually. 
46

• Upon finalization of Poultry Slaughter Rule and in accordance 

 with approved implementation strategies, successfully process 

 100% of identified FY 15 personnel documents related to the 

 affected population by September 1, 2015.

• Continue ongoing improvement to hiring reform by achieving 

 overall process time decrease to 70 days to meet or exceed 

 the OPM requirement. 

• Fully automate onboarding processes through the successful 

 implementation of Entrance On Duty (EOD)-Online system 

 components by August 30, 2015.

Goal 7 

Empower employees with the 

training, resources, and tools to 

enable success in protecting 

public health.

Outcome 7.3

FSIS has a diverse, engaged, 

high-performing, and satisfied

workforce.

Performance Measure 7.3.3

Ranking in the Partnership for 

Public Service’s Annual Report, 

Best Places to Work in the 

Federal Government.

Result 4: FSIS will advance the cultural transformation initiative by 

continuously facilitating a cooperative, respectful, and 

communicative workplace in which employees feel valued, 

are fully developed and utilized, and knowledgably contribute 

to agency success. 

FSIS will work to reduce conflict and complaints/grievances, 

increase the timely processing of formal challenges as employees 

proactively work together to identify holistic solutions, and timely 

resolve sensitive issues. FSIS will ensure that competency 

assessments and workforce succession plans are current and are 

foundational to the individual development planning process. The 

agency will ensure supervisors and managers promote 

organization diversity goals and work/life balance programs and 

initiatives. Key dates and targets include: ensuring that 90% of

eligible workforce maintains a current telework agreement; 

publish the Labor Management action plan by November 30, 

2014; and convert 90% of students who successfully complete

the Student Employment Program to full-time employees.

Actions:

• Participate on a committee of technical experts from each 

 program area to examine existing onboarding procedures/

 training materials and formulate recommendations. Adapt the 

 training for non-field employees to more closely align with 

 training for field employees by September 1, 2015. 

• Integrate and update the FSIS Supervisory performance 

 measure to include the AgLearn 360o tool. Require managers 

 to seek and utilize feedback from their staffs and make it a 

 supervisory performance measure. Submit all required 

 Cultural Transformation-related reports monthly. 

• Ensure that 90% of the eligible teleworking workforce has 

 current telework agreements in place to meet work/life balance 

 program and COOP requirements. Ensure that 50% of eligible 

 employees actively utilize telework to work remotely. 
47

• Implement webinars for all supervisors on relevant labor and employee relations topics to be conducted 

 monthly (12 in all) to improve the supervisory skill set in these areas beginning October 2014 and ending on 

 September 1, 2015.

• Publish a Labor-Management action plan to establish ownership and track organization’s collaborative 

 process with the Union no later than November 30, 2014.

• Work closely with OPHS management to achieve Green Status under the Fed Center Environmental 

 Management System Criteria by overseeing the environmental management programs at three FSIS 

 laboratories. 

• Convert 90% of students who successfully complete the Student Employment Program, and increase 

 diversity of participants to 60% of student population.

• Implement an effective labor and employee relations case management system, to include garnishments 

 processes, that is integrated with the National Finance Center (NFC) and the other HR platforms to reduce 

 errors, reduce data entry, and provide consistent measures of case processing times no later than April 30, 

 2015. Reduce the employee relations average case processing time for all new cases to 75 days or less no 

 later than June 30, 2015.

• Provide a broad and collective targeted recruitment and hiring program designed to reduce the vacancy rate 

 in hard-to-fill locations by September 1, 2015.

• Increase hiring and development of veterans, and identify outreach programs to individuals with disabilities. 

 Establish field level coordinators and establish a Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) for such hiring by 

 September 1, 2015.
48

Office of Outreach, Employment 

Education and Training

Work Contributes to 

Strategic Plan Goal(s), 

Outcome(s) & Measure(s):

Key RESULTS to be Achieved and ACTIONS 

undertaken by End of FY 2015

Goal 7

Empower employees with the 

training, resources, and tools to 

enable success in protecting 

public health.

Outcome 7.2

All employees have the knowledge, 

tools, and resources to accomplish 

the FSIS mission.

Performance Measure 7.2.1

% of competency gaps closed for 

targeted group. 

Result 1: FSIS will develop and validate specific leadership and technical 

competency models and guildes for the five mission-critical

occupations (MCOs) identified by OPM (Economist, Human 

Resources Specialist, Auditors, Contract Specialist, and 

Information Technology Specialist). Also included are the three 

FSIS Critical Positions (PHVs, CSIs, and EIAOs). The following 

levels will be measured: Level 1 – Awareness; Level 2 – Basic; 

Level 3 – Intermediate; Level 4 – Advanced; and Level 5 – Expert. 

Actions:

• Collaborate with OM, OIEA, OPPD and OCIO to develop a

 process that will identify and define the technical competencies 

 for the eight MCOs by June 2015.

• Identify how the MCOs competencies will be assessed and 

 provide a guide describing how the competencies are to be 

 used in human and performance management functions, 

 such as recruiting, structured interviewing, onboarding, 

 career development, performance appraisal, succession

 planning, and training.

 

• Develop a resource guide to detail specific actions and training 

 opportunities that will improve the MCOs standing on the 

 specified cross-cutting competencies. 
49

Goal 7

Empower employees with the 

training, resources, and tools to 

enable success in protecting 

public health.

Outcome 7.2

All employees have the knowledge, 

tools, and resources to accomplish 

the FSIS mission.

Performance Measure 7.2.1

% of competency gaps closed for 

targeted group. 

Performance Measure 7.2.2

% of all eligible FSIS employees with 

an opportunity to have an Individual 

Development Plan (IDP) in place.

Result 2:

FSIS will strengthen the public health scientific and technical 

skills of the workforce. In 100% of target courses, OOEET 

will measure the competency of students with the goal of 80% 

meeting the competency standard after training. 

Outcome results will be measured by taking the

series of actions below. 

Actions:

• For 100% of target courses in FY 2015, OOEET will 

 calculate the demonstrated competency for each class 

 and report the percentage of classes that met or do not 

 meet the competency standard of 80% by 

 September 30, 2015.

• Analyze the level of training effectiveness for each class 

 by comparing the average pre/post-test score 

 improvements to a benchmark of training effectiveness 

 reported in the scientific training evaluation literature.

• Review course evaluation feedback for targeted courses 

 to identify consistent areas of content or delivery that can 

 be improved in order to increase training effectiveness. 

 Recommendations will be monitored and implemented 

 based on the needs of the training and participants.

• Develop correlation program and assessment process, 

 and revised training materials for sanitary dressing; 

 deploy using “train the trainer,” webinars, common 

 scenarios on InsideFSIS, and AgLearn.

• Ensure 100% of agency employees have an opportunity 

 to have IDPs.

Goal 4

Strengthen collaboration among 

internal and external stakeholders to 

prevent foodborne illness.

Outcome 4.1

FSIS maximizes relationships with 

public health and food safety partners 

to enhance the food safety system.

Result 3: 

FSIS will aim to reach, if not surpass, the 73% target of 

identified opportunities realized to improve information 

sharing to further enhance outreach to small and very small 

establishments. The achievement of this result will depend 

on OOEET’s capability to lead, conduct, develop, and 

produce publications, webinars, conference calls, exhibits 

and other initiatives to reach owners and operators of small 

and very small meat and poultry establishments.

Actions: 

• Publish 10 editions of Small Plant News, online and in 

 print. 

• Publish one guidebook for small and very small meat 

 and poultry establishments on subjects of technical and 

 scientific merit.
50

Performance Measure 4.1.3

Small and Very Small Plants: 

Percentage of identified 

opportunities realized to 

improve information sharing.

Actions:

• Conduct 12 monthly teleconferences/webinars for the State 

 MPI directors. These 27 State MPI programs, which represent 

 an approximate $54 million outlay in FSIS’ budget, represent a 

 critical link in the Nation’s food safety infrastructure.

• Conduct 12 monthly teleconferences/webinars for HACCP 

 Contacts and Coordinators. This constituency is comprised 

 of HACCP Coordinators at universities across the country who 

 provide technical advice to small and very small plant owners 

 and operators.

• Have an FSIS presence, through staffing and exhibits, at 15 

 high-impact conferences, conventions, and meetings that draw 

 FSIS constituencies in industry, academia, State government, 

 and other food safety partners. Provide technical assistance, 

 agency publications, FSIS-produced CDs, and information and 

 instructions pertaining to the Small Plant Help Desk 

 and AskFSIS.

Goal 4

Strengthen collaboration among 

internal and external stakeholders

to prevent foodborne illness.

Outcome 4.1

FSIS maximizes relationships with 

public health and food safety

 partners to enhance the food 

safety system.

Performance Measure 4.1.3

Small and Very Small Plants: 

Percentage of identified 

opportunities realized to 

improve information sharing.

Result 4:

FSIS will provide outreach and support to small-scale livestock 

and poultry producers and small and very small State-inspected 

establishments to enter into, and remain in, the Cooperative 

Interstate Shipment (CIS) program with FSIS to support the 

Department’s “Know Your Food, Know Your Farmer” initiative. 

Currently 4 of the 27 States that have MPI Programs participate 

in the CIS program. As of this point, this level of engagement in 

the program represents a much lower participation rate than 

originally estimated by the agency. There is currently interest 

percolating from livestock producers in a fifth State to participate 

in the program. OOEET will work with these States with MPI 

Programs and any other interested parties to provide the 

necessary information so that small State-inspected plants know 

that they have the option of entering into this program provided 

they meet the “same as” Federal requirements. 

(OOEET Result 4)

Actions:

• Provide guidance about the CIS program through the monthly 

 State directors’ webinars as well as through one-on-one 

 interactions.

• Provide support to, continuously liaison with, and provide out

 reach to State inspection programs that seek to qualify to 

 participate in the CIS program. 

• Partner and work with other USDA agencies to provide 

 outreach to small and very small State-inspected processors 

 and small-scale livestock and poultry producers about the 

 CIS program. 
51

Office of Public Affairs and 

Consumer Education

Work Contributes to 

Strategic Plan Goal(s), 

Outcome(s) & Measure(s):

Key RESULTS to be Achieved and ACTIONS 

undertaken by End of FY 2015

Goal 3

Enhance Public Education and 

Outreach to Improve Food-Handling 

Practices.

 

Outcome 3.1

Consumers, including vulnerable and 

underserved populations, adopt food 

safety best practices.

Performance Measure 3.1.1

Average percentage of consumers 

who follow the four key food safety 

“best practices” (i.e., clean, separate, 

cook, and chill; and thermometer use). 

(Corporate Measure) 

Result 1: FSIS will educate and promote consumer knowledge and 

acceptance of the four key food safety messages with a 

particular focus on at-risk populations explaining why they 

are at a higher risk for foodborne illnesses.

Actions:

• Increase the number of impressions of the Food Safe 

 Families campaign to 2.05 billion (14% above the FY 14 

 level of 1.8 billion). Campaign messages will feature the 

 four key messages with a particular focus on cross 

 contamination and thermometer use.

• Devise and implement consumer outreach strategy that 

 increases by 15% above FY 14’s total of 1.6 million – out

 reach to at-risk populations to 1.8 million. Utilize 

 technology to better target these populations and ensure 

 that recalls and other public health notifications are 

 properly and consistently disseminated to these groups. 

• Increase outreach to at-risk populations by establishing 

 partnerships with at least five national organizations 

 representing at-risk groups. Work with these 

 organizations to create targeted products and 

 events focused on their membership.

• Increase reach of Spanish-language information by 

 establishing at least 5 partnerships with key national 

 Hispanic organizations and actively conducting outreach 

 in the top 10 Hispanic media markets, seeing a 42% 

 increase over FY2014 number in Spanish stories for 

 FSIS.

• By November 30, 2014, partner with foodsafety.gov team 

 to develop an area focused on serving at-risk populations 

 with products targeted to their needs.

• Increase visitors to the Food Safety Discovery Zone

 (FSDZ) to 600,000, 20% over the FY2014 APP target. 

 Promote at least 75% of FSDZ events through local and 

 social media.
52

Goal 7

Empower employees with the 

training, resources, and tools to 

enable success in protecting 

public health. 

Outcome 7.1

Each employee understands 

how he/she impacts public health.

Performance Measure 7.1.1

Average score on the Annual 

Employee Viewpoint Survey for 

questions related to workers’ 

understanding of their impact 

on public health. 

Result 2: 

FSIS will continue to strengthen the connection of field employees 

with the agency’s mission to protect public health, including use of 

the “one team, one purpose” campaign.

Actions:

• OPACE will focus on the promotion of the Ambassador 

 program with potential events, actively reaching District

 Offices staff and organizing monthly conference calls with 

 Ambassadors. Will ensure at least 80% of the districts are 

 actively engaged in the Ambassador program.

• By December 31, 2014, analyze employee feedback collected 

 in FY 2014. Develop an internal communications strategy and 

 implement by September 30, 2015, with at least two 

 improvements to the FY14 approach in consultation with OCFO. 

• Coordinate with OCFO-Program Evaluation and Improvement 

 Staff (PEIS) and launch internal survey of employee 

 communication efforts to be conducted by September 30, 2015. 

• In consultation with OFO and OCFO, create at least three 

 communication opportunities to districts/field that provide

 training, resources, and feedback opportunities by 

 September 30, 2015.

Result 3 

FSIS will improve customer service by providing accurate and 

timely information to the public, internal and external 

stakeholders, and the regulated community to support these 

audiences’ understanding of FSIS policies and programs in an 

effort to promote transparency and enhance the agency’s 

credibility.

Actions:

• Create new and improved media and public fact sheets and 

 other materials in order to provide to the public a clear picture 

 of the work, mission, and commitment of the agency. Develop 

 plan by January 31, 2015, and implement on website by

 May 31, 2015.

• By March 1, 2015, implement social media governance and use 

 those safeguards as justification to establish and promote 

 communications strategy based on social media analytics

 and baseline data collected during FY 14. 

• By November 1, 2014, develop for agency review a year-long 

 adaptable communications strategy that includes coordinated 

 messages that align with agency priorities, being mindful of the 

 Department’s request for opportunities for amplification of their 

 message priorities. 

Goal 3

Enhance Public Education and 

Outreach to Improve Food-Handling 

Practices.

Outcome 3.2

Consumers have effective tools and 

information to keep “in-home” food 

safe.

Performance Measure 3.2.1-b

Population that views FSIS’ most 

important “in-home” food safety 

message (i.e., clean, separate, 

cook, and chill; thermometer use). 

– FSIS Electronic Media Outreach; 

Pageviews on FSIS Website 

(66 million).

Performance Measure 3.2.1-c

Population that views FSIS’ most 

important “in-home” food safety 

message (i.e., clean, separate, 

cook, and chill; thermometer use).

 – FSIS Electronic Media Outreach: 

YouTube Views (700,000).
53

Performance Measure 3.2.1-d

Population that views FSIS’ most 

important “in-home” food safety 

message (i.e., clean, separate, 

cook, and chill; thermometer use).

 – FSIS Electronic Media Outreach: 

Twitter Followers (712,000).

Performance Measure 3.2.1-e

Population that views FSIS’ most 

important “in-home” food safety 

message (i.e., clean, separate, 

cook; and chill; thermometer use). 

– FSIS Electronic Media Outreach:

Visitors to the USDA Food Safety

 Discovery Zone (600,000).

• By September 30, 2015, increase website page views 

 over FY 2014 level by 10% to more than 66 million 

 (cumulative). Increase visits by mobile devices by 

 10%, increasing total visits to 7.2 million.

• Sustain growth of the @USDAFoodSafety and increase 

 the number of Twitter followers by at least 20% from FY 

 2014 to more than 712,000. In addition to adding 

 followers, increase re-tweets (sharing content) by 10% 

 using at least two campaigns or seasonal education 

 pushes as vehicles. 

• Promote the FOIA Reading Room as a resource to 

 reporters and the public before they submit FOIA 

 requests. By December 31, 2014, analyze FY 13 metrics 

 for those respective web pages and implement measures 

 to increase the number of page views by at least 10%. 

• Increase YouTube video views to 700,000. Continue to 

 expand innovative use of video content for consumer 

 education and other agency issues. Promote new and 

 leverage existing products through other outreach and 

 dissemination methods, including partnerships.

Goal 3

Enhance Public Education 

and Outreach to Improve 

Food-Handling Practices.

Outcome 3.2

Consumers have effective

 tools and information to keep

“in-home” food safe.

Result 4

OPACE, in conjunction with OPPD and OOEET, will 

pursue enhancing the safe food-handling instructions 

on meat and poultry products packaged for consumers.

Actions:

• By April 30, 2015, monitor contract to gather 

 requirements necessary to revise and/or redesign 

 Safe Handling Instructions (SHI) labels and receive

 report from contractor.

Performance Measure 3.2.1-b

Population that views FSIS’ most important “in-home” food safety message 

(i.e., clean, separate, cook; and chill; 

thermometer use). – FSIS Electronic 

Media Outreach; Pageviews on FSIS 

Website 

(66 million).

Actions:

• By July 30, 2015, develop proposal and work through 

 governance process to secure funding to initiate contract 

 to revise and/or redesign SHI labels, including consumer 

 testing.

• By September 30, 2015, initiate contract to revise and/or 

 redesign SHI labels, including consumer testing, and 

 modify SHI timeline to reflect report and 

 recommendations from requirements gathering contract.
54

Performance Measure 3.2.1-c

Population that views FSIS’ most 

important “in-home” food safety 

message (i.e., clean, separate, 

cook, and chill; thermometer use). 

– FSIS Electronic Media Outreach: 

YouTube Views (700,000).

Performance Measure 3.2.1-d

Population that views FSIS’ most 

important “in-home” food safety 

message (i.e., clean, separate, 

cook, and chill; thermometer use). 

– FSIS Electronic Media Outreach: 

Twitter Followers (712,000).

Performance Measure 3.2.1-e

Population that views FSIS’ most 

important “in-home” food safety 

message (i.e., clean, separate, cook 

and chill; thermometer use). – FSIS 

Electronic Media Outreach: Visitors 

to the USDA Food Safety Discovery 

Zone (600,000) to Food Discover 

Zone.
Objective

Total

Illnesses FSIS products/

100,000 persons

Salmonella

Lm

357,515

775

4.75

0.13

E. coli O157:H7

All-Illness 

15,665

373,955

0.30

55

Office of Public 

Health Science

Work Contributes to 

Strategic Plan Goal(s), 

Outcome(s) & Measure(s):

Key RESULTS to be Achieved and ACTIONS 

undertaken by End of FY 2015

Goal 1

Ensure that food safety inspection 

aligns with existing and emerging risks.

Outcome 1.1

Minimize existing and emerging food 

safety hazards through the most 

effective means. 

Performance Measure 1.1.1

Total number of Salmonella, Listeria 

monocytogenes, and E. coli O157:H7 

illnesses from products regulated by 

FSIS. (Corporate Measure)

Goal 4

Strengthen Collaboration Among 

Internal and External Stakeholders 

to Prevent Foodborne Illness.

Outcome 4.1

FSIS maximizes relationships with 

public health and food safety partners 

to enhance the food safety system. 

Performance Measure 4.1.1 

Research: Percentage of time products 

from USDA three research agencies 

(i.e., Agricultural Research Service, 

Economic Research Service, and 

National Institute of Food and 

Agriculture) used by FSIS and 

shared with stakeholders.

Result 1: 

FSIS will work to improve the understanding of known 

hazards and risks associated with FSIS-regulated 

commodities, from farm to table, to inform the 

development of agency policies to reduce, eliminate, 

or prevent consumer exposure to known foodborne 

hazards associated with meat, poultry, and processed

egg products. 

FSIS will use illness reduction targets aligned with Healthy 

People 2020 goals to determine if agency actions have 

been effective in improving public health. FSIS will focus 

on chemical hazards and pathogens of most concern for 

which FSIS has testing programs and regulates: 

Salmonella and Campylobacter (causing the most cases 

of foodborne illness), Listeria monocytogenes (causing the 

highest mortality), and STEC (both O157 and non-O157 

STEC that can cause severe illness). Food Net data allows 

FSIS to estimate how many illnesses will result from 

consuming FSIS-regulated products in FY 2015:

Measure

Foodborne Illnesses from
56

Performance Measure 4.1.3

Small and Very Small Plants: 

Percentage of identified 

opportunities realized to 

improve information sharing.

Goal 5

Effectively Use Science to 

Understand Foodborne Illness 

and Emerging Trends.

Outcome 5.1

FSIS continually improves its 

capacity for and use of cutting-edge 

science in policy development to 

better defend against public health.

Performance Measure 5.1.1

% of annual science agenda 

completed and number of 

agenda items initiated.

Performance Measure 5.1.2

% of completed science agenda 

items that meet quality standards

 for information rigor, clarity, and 

defensibility of methods used.

Outcome 5.2 

FSIS increases the application of 

cutting-edge science across the 

Farm-to-Table supply chain to 

improve public health.

Performance Measure 5.2.1 

% of identified public health and 

food safety gaps addressed across 

the Farm-to-Table Continuum.

Actions:

• Beef/Veal Carcass Baseline Study (BVCBS) - Complete 

 sampling for pathogens and begin analysis of results to 

 determine if setting performance standards will make beef 

 and veal safer (by July 30, 2015).

• Pork Exploratory Sampling Study - Identify opportunities to 

 address risks during pig slaughter or processing and complete 

 sampling for pathogens in pork to determine if new policies, 

 such as setting performance standards, will make pork safer 

 (by September 30, 2015).

• Siluriformes Sampling Program (i.e., “Catfish” group of finned 

 fish) – Develop a sampling program for Salmonella and other 

 hazards by April 1, 2015; implement and monitor the program 

 and develop an evaluation strategy (by September 30, 2015).

• Evaluation of Ground Beef Salmonella data - Evaluate ground 

 beef sampling data to explore options for revising the current 

 performance standard and develop recommendations to inform 

 policy development targeted to make ground beef safer 

 (by May 30, 2015).

• Foodborne Illness Investigation Outreach - Conduct at least 

 five on-site visits with foodborne illness first responders (State 

 and local health departments, departments of agriculture) to 

 strengthen relationships essential to effective foodborne 

 disease investigations (by March 31, 2015).

• Impact of Antimicrobial Interventions on Pathogen Testing - 

 Collaborate with the USDA Agricultural Research Service 

 to determine how antimicrobials used in commercial poultry 

 processing affect FSIS in-plant Salmonella monitoring data 

 (by September 30, 2015).

• National Advisory Committee on Microbiological Criteria for 

 Foods (NACMCF) - Facilitate full committee adoption of 

 Norovirus and Department of Defense purchase criteria 

 reports (by December 31, 2014); facilitate work on two 

 new charges (by September 30, 2015).

2 FSIS policies or other initiatives in FY 15 are prospectively identified as needing research initiatives in the 

pipeline based on the FSIS policy agenda. The FSIS research priorities list details the priority public health 

and food safety knowledge gaps that need to be filled through targeted research. FSIS revises the list every 

6 months, and the FSIS Scientific Liaison encourages researchers to address FSIS data needs.
57

Goal 6

Implement Effective Policies to 

Respond to Existing and Emerging 

Risks.

Outcome 6.1

Public health risks are mitigated through 

effective strategies based on the best 

available information. 

Performance Measure 6.1.3

Frequency of reviews examining the 

effectiveness of FSIS policies regarding 

significant public health risks. 

Goal 8

Based on the Defined Agency Business 

Needs, Develop, Maintain, and Use 

Innovative Methodologies, Processes, 

and Tools, including PHIS, to Protect 

Public Health Efficiently and Effectively 

and to Support Defined Public Health 

Needs and Goals. 

Outcome 8.1

Continuously evaluate and seek to 

understand and employ new or 

innovative mission-supporting

processes, methodologies, 

and technologies.

Performance Measure 8.1.1

% of innovative processes, 

methodologies, or technologies 

for which the agency has established

a baseline.

Goal 4

Strengthen Collaboration Among 

Internal and External Stakeholders 

to Prevent Foodborne Illness.

Outcome 4.1

FSIS maximizes relationships with 

public health and food safety partners

to enhance the food safety system. 

Result 2: 

FSIS will work to improve the understanding of 

emerging hazards and risks associated with FSIS’ 

regulated commodities, from farm to table, to inform 

the development of agency policies – to reduce, 

eliminate, or prevent consumer exposure to new 

foodborne hazards associated with meat, poultry, 

and processed egg products. 
58

Performance Measure 4.1.1 

Research: Percentage of time 

products from three USDA 

research agencies (i.e., 

Agricultural Research Service, 

Economic Research Service, 

and National Institute of Food 

and Agriculture) used by FSIS 

and shared with stakeholders.

Goal 5

Effectively Use Science to 

Understand Foodborne Illness 

and Emerging Trends.

Outcome 5.1

FSIS continually improves its 

capacity for and use of cutting-edge 

science in policy development to 

better defend against public health.

Performance Measure 5.1.1

% of annual science agenda 

completed and number of 

agenda items initiated.

Performance Measure 5.1.2

% of completed science agenda 

items that meet quality standards 

for information rigor, clarity, and 

defensibility of methods used.

Outcome 5.2 

FSIS increases the application of 

cutting-edge science across the 

Farm-to-Table supply chain to 

improve public health.

Performance Measure 5.2.1 

% of identified public health and 

food safety gaps addressed across 

the Farm-to-Table Continuum.

Actions:

• National Residue Program (NRP) Enhancements - Prioritize 

 and focus on chemical hazards of highest concern and manage 

 or eliminate sources of chemical contamination in meat, poultry, 

 and egg products; support development of a Federal Register 

 Notice on chemical hazards; host monthly interagency residue 

 meetings with Federal food safety advisory committees to 

 discuss options; and publish Dioxin Survey results 

 (by September 30, 2015).

• Fish of the Order Siluriformes Laboratory Methods - Validate 

 methods for dyes, environmental contaminants, select veterinary 

 drugs, Salmonella and species to support the implementation of 

 the Final Siluriformes Rule (by April 1, 2015). 

• Consumer Complaint Monitoring System (CCMS) and 

 Foodborne Illness Investigation – Analyze trends in consumer 

 complaint reports and foodborne illness investigation data to 

 determine where further actions could reduce foodborne illness; 

 collaborate with public health partners on consumer reporting 

 trends and explore options to encourage consumer use of online 

 resources to report complaints (by September 30, 2015).

• Emerging Risks Identification - The Hazard Identification Team 

 (HIT) of agency subject-matter experts will identify and 

 determine, for at least five newly identified emerging issues, 

 if the level of concern requires agency-level decisionmaking 

 (by September 30, 2015).

• FSIS Antimicrobial Resistance and Sensitivity Testing – 

 An agency work group will analyze trends in antimicrobial 

 sensitivity and resistance testing data (by December 31, 2014) 

 and post results on the FSIS website from antimicrobial 

 susceptibility and resistance testing of pathogens isolated 

 from HACCP and cecal samples analyzed in FY 2014 

 (by September 30, 2015).

• Toxoplasma gondii review – Review the current science, 

 develop options, and make recommendations for the control 

 of Toxoplasma gondii, a parasite in meat and poultry 

 (by September 30, 2015).
59

Goal 4

Strengthen Collaboration Among 

Internal and External Stakeholders

to Prevent Foodborne Illness.

Outcome 4.1

FSIS maximizes relationships with 

public health and food safety partners 

to enhance the food safety system. 

Performance Measure 4.1.1

Research: Percentage of time products 

from three USDA research agencies 

(i.e., Agricultural Research Service, 

Economic Research Service, and 

National Institute of Food and 

Agriculture) used by FSIS and 

shared with stakeholders.

Goal 5

Effectively Use Science to 

Understand Foodborne 

Illness and Emerging Trends.

Outcome 5.1

FSIS continually improves its capacity 

for and use of cutting-edge science in 

policy development to better defend 

against public health.

Performance Measure 5.1.1

% of annual science agenda completed 

and number of agenda items initiated.

Performance Measure 5.1.2

% of completed science agenda items 

that meet quality standards for 

information rigor, clarity, and 

defensibility of methods used.

Result 3: 

FSIS will examine existing science and available 

technology to meet its analytical needs for addressing 

emerging food safety hazards. Refine and develop tools 

(quantitative modeling and analysis tools, and new 

laboratory methods) to measure how FSIS policies improve 

the safety of meat, poultry, and egg products and to better 

analyze the impact of agency policy on public health.

Actions:

• Introduction of Whole Genome Sequencing (WGS) – 

 Develop the capacity for introduction and implementation 

 of a WGS program by implementing the capability to 

 perform WGS on outbreak samples with results uploaded 

 to National Center for Biotechnology Information (NCBI) 

 within 30 days of receipt of isolates (by June 1, 2015) and 

 determining the appropriate information technology 

 infrastructure and support needed on a routine basis, 

 including exploring options for procurement of the 

 necessary software and hardware infrastructure 

 (by September 30, 2015).

• Considerations for Commodity-based Risk 

 Determinations – Document options for a 

 commodity-based approach, i.e., to assess risk from 

 multiple hazards in a single food/commodity 

 (by September 30, 2015).

• Salmonella Characteristics that Impact Public Health – 

 Document relevant considerations about the impact of 

 Salmonella characteristics—including species, serotype, 

 and multi-drug resistance—on public health to inform 

 agency decisionmakers (by September 30, 2015). 

• Using data from FSIS baseline surveys and other 

 available information, develop a report that summarizes 

 the utility of microbiological data in assessments of an 

 establishment’s process and sanitary controls, 

 including data on the types and levels of indicator 

 bacteria and pathogens from various points in the 

 slaughter process. Partner with OOEET to develop 

 revised training materials and supplemental tools for 

 sanitary dressing.

3

 Catfish Sampling Plan

# Samples 

 per year

Type of 

Sample

Tests at Eastern Laboratory Tests at Western Laboratory

100

100

Domestic

Import

Salmonella, Speciation, Metals, Dyes, Speciation, and, possibly, 

Chloramphenicol

Salmonella, Speciation, Metals, Dyes, Speciation, and, possibly, 

Chloramphenicol Salmonella, Pesticides, Nitrofurans

100 Domestic
60

Office of Policy and 

Program Development 

Work Contributes to 

Strategic Plan Goal(s), 

Outcome(s) & Measure(s):

Key RESULTS to be Achieved and ACTIONS 

undertaken by End of FY 2015

Goal 1

Ensure that food safety inspection 

aligns with existing and emerging 

risks.

Outcome 1.1

Minimize existing and emerging 

food safety hazards through the 

most effective means. 

Performance Measure 1.1.1

Total number of Salmonella, 

Listeria monocytogenes, and E. coli 

O157:H7 illnesses from products 

regulated by FSIS. 

(Corporate Measure)

Goal 2

Maximize Domestic and 

International Compliance 

with Food Safety Policies.

Outcome 2.1

Domestic- and foreign-produced 

products meet food safety 

performance standards.

Performance Measure 2.1.1

% of broiler plants passing the 

carcass Salmonella verification 

testing. (Corporate Measure)

Result 1: 

FSIS will address three major issues concerning Salmonella

and will take actions that will help to reduce illnesses from this 

pathogen attributable to FSIS-regulated products, including: (1) 

establishing new Salmonella performance standards for 

comminuted poultry and chicken parts; (2) determining how 

verification testing for Salmonella can be improved; and (3) 

determining whether its existing policies on Salmonella

are being effectively implemented.

Actions:

• As announced in the Salmonella Action Plan, OPPD will 

 collaborate with other offices to develop new performance 

 standards for raw comminuted chicken and turkey products and 

 chicken parts for Salmonella and Campylobacter. OPPD will 

 issue a Federal Register Notice (FRN) with proposed new 

 performance standards at the beginning of the fiscal year and 

 will include discussion of assessing whether establishments are 

 meeting the performance standard based on a “moving window” 

 approach. By the end of the fiscal year, OPPD will complete 

 an analysis of comments and develop final standards and imple

 mentation plans for final standards, which will be announced in a 

 subsequent FRN (possibly in FY 2016). 
61

Goal 5

Effectively Use Science to 

Understand Foodborne

Illness and Emerging Trends.

Outcome 5.1

FSIS continually improves its capacity 

for and use of cutting-edge science in 

policy development to better defend 

against public health.

Performance Measure 5.1.2

% of completed science agenda 

items that meet quality standards 

for information rigor, clarity, and 

defensibility of methods used.

Goal 6

Implement Effective Policies to 

Respond to Existing and 

Emerging Risks.

Outcome 6.1

Public health risks are mitigated through 

effective strategies based on the best 

available information. 

Performance Measure 6.1.1

% of food safety appeals granted 

(categories of appeals in which FSIS 

actions were misapplied or poorly 

supported and overturned by a 

higher-level supervisor).

Performance Measure 6.1.2

% of regulated industry adhering to key 

public health-related policies 

(establishments receiving zero 

public health related 

non-compliance in a year).

Performance Measure 6.1.3

Frequency of reviews examining the 

effectiveness of FSIS policies regarding 

significant public health risks.

• In collaboration with ODIFP and OPHS, as 

 announced in the Salmonella Action Plan, OPPD will 

 develop necessary public notices and instructions to 

 the field to implement a Salmonella sampling 

 program for pork products (e.g., ground pork and 

 other comminuted pork) and will develop necessary 

 public notices and take necessary comments into 

 consideration to begin posting on the FSIS website 

 Salmonella “category information” (on how effectively 

 establishment is meeting Salmonella standards) for 

 all establishments beginning January 1, 2015.
62

Goal 1

Ensure that food safety inspection 

aligns with existing and emerging 

risks.

Outcome 1.1

Minimize existing and emerging 

food safety hazards through the 

most effective means. 

Performance Measure 1.1.1

Total number of Salmonella, 

Listeria monocytogenes, and E. coli 

O157:H7 illnesses from products 

regulated by FSIS. 

(Corporate Measure)

Result 2: 

FSIS will address two major issues concerning STEC and will take 

actions that will help reduce STEC in raw ground beef and 

other products, including: (1) reviewing of FSIS test results; 

and (2) reviewing instructions in notices and directives and 

developing new policies, procedures, and guidance to industry. 

Specifically, FSIS will assess whether its verification instructions 

for non-O157 STEC and O157 are being effectively implemented 

and make necessary changes to directives, notices, and 

regulations based on the reviews. 

Goal 5

Effectively Use Science to 

Understand Foodborne Illness 

and Emerging Trends.

Outcome 5.1

FSIS continually improves its 

capacity for and use of cutting-edge 

science in policy development to 

better defend against public health.

Performance Measure 5.1.2

% of completed science agenda 

items that meet quality standards 

for information rigor, clarity, and 

defensibility of methods used.

Goal 6

Implement Effective Policies to 

Respond to Existing and Emerging 

Risks.

Outcome 6.1

Public health risks are mitigated 

through effective strategies based 

on the best available information. 
63

Performance Measure 6.1.1

% of food safety appeals granted 

(categories of appeals in which FSIS 

actions were misapplied or poorly 

supported and overturned by a 

higher-level supervisor).

Performance Measure 6.1.2

% of regulated industry adhering to 

key public health-related policies 

(establishments receiving zero 

public health-related non-compliance

in a year).

Performance Measure 6.1.3

Frequency of reviews examining the 

effectiveness of FSIS policies regarding 

significant public health risks.

Actions:

• Analyze comments in response to published cost-benefit 

 analysis for expanding FSIS non-O157 testing to include 

 raw ground beef and ground beef components in addition 

 to trim. Depending on the outcome (comments and 

 available data), develop necessary analysis and options 

 to inform final agency decision whether to expand STEC 

 testing to include additional products. Announce final 

 decision and any changes to testing policy and 

 procedures.

• To facilitate field personnel use of sanitary dressing 

 directives; develop and post with the directives additional 

 photographs and supplemental visual materials. Develop 

 guidance on sanitary dressing for industry. Collaborate 

 with OOEET and OFO on new sanitary dressing training 

 materials and correlation sessions and work with OFO 

 to assess effectiveness of instructions and supplemental 

 materials in all districts.

Goal 1

Ensure that food safety inspection aligns 

with existing and emerging risks.

Outcome 1.2

Resources are targeted to existing and 

emerging risks.

Performance Measure 1.2.1

% of domestic establishments that 

meet the “for cause” Food Safety 

Assessments and monthly Hazard 

Analysis Verification decision criteria 

more than once per year.

Performance Measure 1.2.2

% of importing countries requiring more 

immediate inspection or reinspection 

attention more than twice within the 

previous year.

Goal 6

Implement Effective Policies to Respond 

to Existing and Emerging Risks

Result 3: FSIS will focus its regulation development efforts on four 

major issues related to E.coli O157:H7 and Listeria

monocytogenes in FSIS product and HACCP, including: 

(1) ensuring that inspection personnel are able to verify 

establishments’ validation requirements; (2) effectively 

implementing recordkeeping requirements; (3) finalizing 

the Listeria monocytogenes interim rule; and (4) proposing 

effective HACCP Systems for egg product plants. 

Actions:

• Issue necessary instructions and develop training 

 materials to the field so that FSIS can verify that 

 establishments meet regulatory validation requirements. 

• Analyze comments and make necessary changes to 

 finalize and implement new regulations on record keeping 

 requirements for establishments and retail stores that 

 produce ground beef product.

• Finalize the Listeria monocytogenes interim rule with 

 proposed changes and re-propose the Trichina and 

 canning provisions of the 2001 ready-to-eat proposed 

 rule.

• Publish proposed rule to require egg products plants to 

 develop and implement HACCP Systems and Sanitation 

 Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs).
64

Outcome 6.1

Public health risks are mitigated 

through effective strategies based 

on the best available information. 

Performance Measure 6.1.3

Frequency of reviews examining 

the effectiveness of FSIS policies 

regarding significant public health 

risks.

Goal 1

Ensure that food safety inspection 

aligns with existing and emerging 

risks.

Outcome 1.2

Resources are targeted to existing 

and emerging risks.

Performance Measure 1.2.2

% of priority in-commerce facilities 

(e.g., warehouses, distributors, and 

transporters) covered by 

surveillance activities.

Goal 6

Implement Effective Policies to 

Respond to Existing and 

Emerging Risks.

Outcome 6.1

Public health risks are mitigated 

through effective strategies based 

on the best available information. 

Performance Measure 6.1.3

Frequency of reviews examining 

the effectiveness of FSIS policies 

regarding significant public health 

risks.

Result 4: 

FSIS will focus its international policy development efforts on two 

major issues concerning foreign food regulatory systems and 

export requirements, including: (1) working on strengthening 

verification activities related to imported products; and 

(2) issuing necessary instructions and guidance.

Actions:

• Provide necessary updates and respond to comments in the 

 Federal Register on the methodology ongoing equivalence 

 verification of foreign food regulatory systems. Lead 

 development and issuances of at least three related directives

 or notices to the field on foreign audits, FSIS assessments of 

 corrective actions taken by foreign food regulatory systems 

 related to port-of-entry violations or audit findings, 

 determinations of initial equivalence of foreign food 

 regulatory systems. 

• In collaboration with OIEA and OCIO, finalize the export 

 rule, issue necessary instructions and guidance to 

 implement it, and implement the PHIS export module.
65

U.S. Codex Office

Work Contributes to 

Strategic Plan Goal(s), 

Outcome(s) & Measure(s):

Key RESULTS to be Achieved and ACTIONS 

undertaken by End of FY 2015

Goal 4

Strengthen Collaboration Among Internal 

and External Stakeholders to Prevent 

Foodborne Illness. 

Outcome 4.1

FSIS maximizes relationships with public 

health and food safety partners 

to enhance the food safety system.

Performance Measure (none)

Result 1:

U.S. Codex Office will promote the adoption by 

the Codex Alimentarius Commission of voluntary 

international standards, codes of hygienic practice, 

and other guidelines that align with U.S. food safety 

goals, public health regulations, and international 

trade goals.

Actions:

• Organize U.S. Delegations to nine international 

 meetings of Codex committees, including those 

 responsible for preparing draft standards on food 

 import and export inspection and certification 

 systems, labeling, food hygiene, methods of 

 analysis, contaminants, veterinary drug residues, 

 and pesticide residues, and to the Codex 

 Alimentarius Commission meeting where draft 

 standards are formally adopted and proposals for 

 new work proposals are approved. 90% participation 

 in meetings of the Codex Alimentarius Commission, 

 Committees, and working groups.

• Conduct 9 public meetings; publish 10 Federal 

 Register notices to solicit public comment on U.S. 

 positions and to inform the public of U.S. 

 involvement in international standard-setting 

 activities. Technical experts from collaborating 

 agencies participate in meetings and position 

 review and clearance.

• Conduct multi-agency training for U.S. Delegates 

 to Codex committees to promote more effective 

 leadership of Codex work to develop 

 science-based food standards.

90%
66

Goal 2

Maximize Domestic and 

International Compliance with 

Food Safety Policies.

Outcome 2.1

Domestic- and foreign-produced 

products meet food safety 

performance standards.

Performance Measure 2.1.1

% of broiler plants passing the 

carcass Salmonella verification 

testing. (Corporate Measure)

Goal 5

Effectively Use Science to 

Understand Foodborne 

Illness and Emerging Trends.

Outcome 5.1

FSIS continually improves 

its capacity for and use of 

cutting-edge science in 

policy development to better 

defend against public health.

Performance Measure 5.1.2

% of completed science 

agenda items that meet quality 

standards for information

rigor, clarity, and defensibility 

of methods used.

Result 2: 

U.S. Codex Office will successfully serve as secretariat for two 

U.S.-hosted Codex committees of particular relevance to FSIS 

and associated technical working groups: the Committee on 

Food Hygiene and the Committee on Residues of Veterinary

Drugs in Foods. 

Actions:

• Prepare timely detailed conference proposals and secure 

 Department approvals. U.S.-hosted Codex committee 

 meetings comply with USDA and Federal procedures for 

 conferences; 80% of procurements at or below budget 

 forecasts and financial allocations.

• Prepare, translate, and distribute meeting documents in 

 three official languages used in Codex meetings; contract 

 and manage simultaneous interpretation services, 

 audio/visual services.

• Conduct briefings for Committee chairpersons and the Codex 

 Secretariat for the meeting of the Codex Committee on Food 

 Hygiene (November 2014) and the Codex Committee on 

 Residues of Veterinary Drugs in Foods (April 2015). Assist 

 chairpersons with managing meeting agenda and achieving 

 meeting objectives.
67

Goal 5

Effectively Use Science to 

Understand Foodborne Illness 

and Emerging Trends.

Outcome 5.1

FSIS continually improves its capacity 

for and use of cutting-edge science in 

policy development to better defend 

against public health risks.

Performance Measure 5.1.2

% of completed science agenda 

items that meet quality standards 

for information rigor, clarity, and 

defensibility of methods used.

Result 3:

U.S. Codex Office will support USDA/FSIS mission goals 

by promoting international food safety standards for 

maximizing international compliance with food safety 

policies and strengthening collaboration among 

external stakeholders to prevent foodborne illness. 

Actions:

• Work to gain approval by the Committee on Food 

 Hygiene of the Proposed Draft Guidelines for the 

 Control of Trichinella in pork, and promote adoption

 of the proposed guidelines as a new international 

 standard by the Codex Commission in July 2015.

• Organize, manage, and participate in three regional 

 outreach events to foster inter-regional collaboration and 

 promote common approaches between U.S. delegates 

 and (1) African delegates; (2) Asian delegates; and (3) 

 delegates from Latin America and the Caribbean region. 

• Collaborate with scientific experts in OPHS in leading 

 and hosting working group to develop new Guidelines 

 for Control of Nontyphoidal Salmonella spp. in Beef 

 and Pork; producing and translating draft documents 

 for review by the Committee on Food Hygiene.
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The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) prohibits discrimination in all its programs and activities on 

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USDA is an equal opportunity provider and employer.

December 2014