Approved by CMS

Date Issued: 06/10/12

Date Revised: 03/30/15

SUPPLEMENT 211 TO THE 

AMS MASTER SOLICITATION

 APPROVED

Agricultural Marketing Service (AMS)

Livestock, Poultry and Seed (LPS) Program

Food Safety and Commodity Specification (FSCS) Division

Room 2624 S-Bldg, Phone: (202) 692-0342

 Effective: March 2015

PURCHASE OF FROZEN GROUND BEEF PRODUCTS FOR DISTRIBUTION TO FEDERAL 

FOOD AND NUTRITION ASSISTANCE PROGRAMS

This document provides additional program requirements for the purchase of Frozen Ground 

Beef Products by the Department of Agriculture (USDA), including the applicable Federal 

Purchase Program Specification (FPPS) (Exhibit A and Exhibit A1).

100 INSTRUCTIONS TO POTENTIAL SUPPLIERS

110 The frozen ground beef products will be purchased on a competitive bid basis from 

qualified suppliers who have met the requirements described in this Section. 

Interested suppliers may submit a technical proposal at any time during the purchase

program. Suppliers should allow 10 working days, from USDA’s receipt of the technical 

proposal for notification of evaluation results. A supplier is deemed eligible upon 

notification of approval of the technical proposal by the Food Safety and Commodity 

Specification (FSCS) Division.

120 Submission of a technical proposal is not binding on USDA. Actual purchases will be 

described in the AMS Master Solicitation and Solicitations.

130 Documentation Requirements

131 Technical Proposal Requirement

131.1 Include a detailed description of the ground beef product(s) offered and each of the 

production steps that are taken to meet or exceed the minimum product requirements 

set forth in the FPPS. (Plan/Do)

131.2 Describe all the quality assurance methods used to verify conformance to all 

requirements. This will include the monitoring and measurements taken during the 

process to verify conformance with each requirement. All measurement results shall 

be recorded and made available to AMS. (Check)

131.3 Identify all corrective actions to be taken if deviations from contractual and 

specification requirements occur during production, and all preventative actions to be 

taken to preclude a reoccurrence. (Act)
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Date Issued: 06/10/12

Date Revised: 03/30/15

131.4 The technical proposal shall follow the format as shown in Exhibit B. Technical 

proposals should be brief and concise.

131.5 The technical proposal shall be preceded by the following, as required by the 

template:

131.5.1 Table of Contents listing the major areas as they appear in the technical proposal;

and

131.5.2 List of attachments, forms provided with the technical proposal, if appropriate with the 

applicable document name and reference number.

132 The FSCS Division will review each technical proposal to determine if the proposal is 

adequate and will notify the supplier of the status of their technical proposal and their 

eligibility to bid.

133. Animal Welfare Requirements

133.1 All contractors and subcontractors must meet the animal handling and welfare 

requirements set forth in the Federal Purchase Program Specification (FPPS) For 

Animal Handling and Welfare, effective January 2015 (Exhibit C).

200 INSTRUCTIONS FOR SUBMISSION OF TECHNICAL PROPOSAL

210 The following procedures establish the acceptable minimum requirements for 

the format and content of the technical proposal:

210.1 The Government has provided a technical proposal format which is to be used in 

preparing the technical proposal (see Exhibit B). The supplier shall submit the

technical proposal as an email file attachment to AMS 

(Darin.Doerscher@ams.usda.gov and Steve.Whisenant@ams.usda.gov). The 

technical proposal shall be saved in a non-portable document file format (not PDF; 

e.g., Microsoft Word). The technical proposal must be submitted in its entirety. If the file

size of the technical proposal is too large to send in a single email, it may be divided

and sent in multiple emails (i.e., Part 1, Part 2, Part 3, etc.). The collection of

attachments and appendices may be submitted as a separate document as well.

210.2. The technical proposal must be submitted by an authorized agent of the company.

210.3 While it is not the desire of the Government to penalize an offeror for non-compliance 

with formatting instructions, technical evaluators may have difficulty evaluating the 

technical proposal to the fullest extent possible if the proposal is not presented in the 

proper format. Technical evaluators will not be required to search other subsections 

or sections of the offeror’s technical proposal for information requested in the 

evaluation.

220 Technical Proposal Revisions

221 Changes to a supplier’s technical proposal may be submitted at any time or at the 
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Date Issued: 06/10/12

Date Revised: 03/30/15

request of the FSCS Division. All technical proposal revisions must meet the following

criteria:

221.1 Any changes to a technical proposal made by the supplier after its initial submittal 

shall be accomplished by submitting an entire technical proposal. A cover letter must

be submitted with the changes identified and an explanation of the need for the 

change. The supplier shall include the revision date and the appropriate page 

number(s).

221.2 Changes from the original technical proposal shall be highlighted and deletions in

strikeouts.

300 ASSESSMENT BY THE QUALITY ASSESSMENT (QA) DIVISION

310 Once a supplier is notified by the FSCS Division that the technical proposal meets the 

applicable criteria, the Quality Assessment (QA) Division will contact the supplier to 

set up a pre-award onsite capability assessment audit of the facility’s processes, food 

security plan, and quality control program used to produce the product(s) to 

determine the supplier’s ability to meet contractual requirements.

320 Pre-Award Onsite Capability Assessment Audit

321 Food Defense Assessment

321.1 The QA Division will conduct a food defense audit that will include, but is not limited 

to, a thorough evaluation of the potential contractors’ and subcontractors’ food 

defense plan. Documentation must support the contractor’s or subcontractor’s food 

defense plan. If the report demonstrates that the food defense plan is inadequate, 

the applicant will be notified by the FSCS Division that they are ineligible to bid. The

applicant will have an opportunity to correct identified deficiencies, modify their food 

defense plan and resubmit a brief description for further consideration. Eligibility will 

depend on whether the modifications demonstrate compliance with their food defense 

plan.

322 Slaughter Requirement

322.1 The QA Division will conduct monthly Harvesting (slaughter) audits based on the 

requirements stated in the attached FPPS and the company’s approved technical 

proposal. The audit will review the humane handling and adherence to the nonambulatory disabled animals. Documentation must support the contractor’s or 

subcontractor’s adherence to meeting the harvesting requirements as set forth in the 

FPPS.

323 Documentation must support:

323.1 the production of the ground beef product that complies with the applicable 

specification and the potential contractor’s approved technical proposal, and
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Date Issued: 06/10/12

Date Revised: 03/30/15

323.2 the contractor’s or subcontractor’s food security plan. In addition, the audit will consist 

of the review of records related to purchasing, receiving, production, quality control, 

inventory and shipping records, and interviews with management and production 

personnel.

324 Upon completion of the onsite capability assessment, the auditor will provide either a 

verbal or email notification of the audit findings to the FSCS Division to determine 

(based on the audit findings), supplier eligibility to bid. Supplier will be notified by the 

FSCS Division and the official final report will be sent once released from the QA 

Division.

324.1 If the audit findings demonstrate that the process or food security plan is inadequate, 

the applicant will be notified by the FSCS Division that they are ineligible to bid. The 

supplier will have an opportunity to correct identified deficiencies, modify their 

process, food security plan, and/or technical proposal, and resubmit for further 

consideration.

324.2 Eligibility will depend on whether the modifications demonstrate that:

324.2.1 the process is capable of delivering ground beef product(s) in compliance with the 

FPPS,

324.2.2 the supplier is in compliance with their food security plan,

324.2.3 includes the applicable assessment by USDA, and 

324.2.4 the supplier complies with other applicable contractual requirements.

330 Post-Award Assessment Audit

331 Eligible suppliers who receive contracts must have their documented food security

plan, technical proposal, and supporting documentation readily available for review by 

the FSCS Division or AMS agents. Records may be maintained on hard copy or 

electronic media. However, records maintained as electronic media will be made 

available in printed form immediately upon request by the FSCS Division or AMS 

agents.

332 The QA Division will conduct an onsite audit of the contractor’s and subcontractor’s 

facility(s) and processes when production commences for the first contract awarded. 

Additional audits will be conducted as determined by the FSCS Division, but not less 

than once per month for contractors or subcontractors with continuous or multiple 

contracts, or once per contract for intermittent contractors. At the discretion of the 

FSCS Division, more frequent audits may be conducted when audit deficiencies are 

detected.

340 Post-Award Actions

341 Any deviation from contractual requirements will be immediately reported by the 

contractor to the Contracting Officer and FSCS Division. The Contracting Officer or 
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Date Revised: 03/30/15

FSCS Division will notify the contractor regarding eligibility to continue to participate 

as a contractor.

342 Contractor will assure that the delivered product complies with the provisions of the 

FPPS, the applicable assessment by USDA, and the contractor’s technical proposal

approved by the FSCS Division.

350 The cost of all audit, product monitoring, and certification services performed by the 

AMS agents must be borne by the contractor. This includes, but is not limited to, 

audits, examinations, supervision, official documentation, and related services.

351 Questions concerning charges and the availability of AMS agents can contact 

USDA/AMS, LPS Program’s QA Division field office or the Director of the QA

Division, LPS Program, AMS, USDA, Room 3953-S, STOP 0258, 1400

Independence Avenue, SW, Washington, DC 20250-0258, telephone (202) 720-

3271.

400 PAST PERFORMANCE

410 Contractor Monitoring Program Requirements

411 Ground beef suppliers’ performance as a contractor or subcontractor on contracts 

awarded by the Department of Agriculture (USDA) will be evaluated monthly on a 30

day (1 month) basis or cycle.

412 The evaluation will consist of all non-conformances (NC) that were identified by the 

QA Division auditor. The NC’s will be categorized as critical, major, or minor based 

on their impact on the quality, safety, or value of the involved product.

413 The accumulation of at least two critical NC’s, one critical/two major NC’s, three major 

NC’s, or a total five NC’s in any combination, (i.e., critical, major, or minor) within the 

monthly 30 day (1 month review) will result in the ground beef supplier being deemed 

ineligible by the FSCS Division to supply frozen ground beef product to AMS 

contractors to fill USDA contracts.

413.1 To regain eligibility status, the ground beef supplier must submit appropriate

corrective and preventative measures to FSCS Division for evaluation and the 

measures must be verified by QA Division as effective. The FSCS Division will notify 

the ground beef supplier when eligibility to supply ground beef has been reinstated.

414 The microbial test results will be analyzed separately under statistical process

controls.

415 The criteria for the three categories of non-conformances are as follows:
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Date Issued: 06/10/12

Date Revised: 03/30/15

415.1 Critical

415.1.1 Production non-conformances--a complete breakdown of the production process

has occurred. It is apparent that the company cannot produce product that complies 

with contract requirements.

415.2 Major

415.2.1 Production non-conformances--major deviation from the production process has

occurred that significantly impacts the quality or performance of the product. It is

questionable if the company can consistently produce product that complies with

contract requirements.

415.3 Minor

415.3.1 Production non-conformances--minor deviation from the production process has

occurred that minimally impacts the quality or performance of the product. It is likely 

that the company can produce a product that complies with contract requirements.

420 Sustained Acceptable Performance

421 A contractor or subcontractor will be deemed ineligible to supply fresh 

boneless beef products or ground beef for the USDA purchase programs if:

421.1 The contractor or subcontractor is subject to a Class I recall; or

421.2 Based on an evaluation of all AMS test results for E. coli O157:H7 and Salmonella 

during the previous calendar quarter, the incident rate for either boneless beef or 

ground beef exceeds the central line (cl) values set forth in Appendix B of the 

referenced FPPS (Exhibit A).

422 If deemed ineligible, a contractor or subcontractor must:

422.1 perform a cause-and-effect analysis,

422.2 submit the corrective and preventative actions to FSCS Division for review and 

approval,

422.3 have a successful corrective action audit conducted.

422.4 FSCS Division will notify the ground beef supplier when eligibility to supply ground

beef has been reinstated.

500 DOMESTIC ORIGIN CERTIFICATION CLAUSE

510 The contractor agrees to include this domestic origin certification clause in its entirety 

in all subcontracts for meat or meat products used in fulfilling any contracts awarded 

under this Supplement and Master Solicitation. The burden of proof of compliance is 
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Date Issued: 06/10/12

Date Revised: 03/30/15

on the Contractor. All raw materials will be shipped in containers labeled as 

“Domestic Only Product” on the principle display panel and the bill of lading 

accompanying the shipment will contain the statement “Domestic Only Product.”

600 CERTIFICATE OF CONFORMANCE (COC)

610 In addition to the referenced payment documents required in the Master Solicitation,

please include a copy of the Contractor’s Certificate of Conformance (Exhibit D).

700 CONTRACTOR CHECKLOADING

710 Contractor will perform checkloading examinations as described in the FPPS at 

the time of shipment and issue contractor’s certificate to accompany each 

shipment that includes all of the following information:

710.1 Purchase Order Number,

710.2 Sales Order and Sales Order Item Number,

710.3 Name of product,

710.4 Shipping Date,

710.5 Production lot number(s) and date each lot was produced,

710.6 Count of shipping containers and total projected net weight in each production 

lot,

710.7 Identity of car or truck (car numbers and letters, seals, truck license, etc.) as 

applicable

710.8 Contractor certification that product conforms with the FPPS,

710.9 Count and projected net weight verified, and

710.10 Signature of company official responsible for checkloading.

800 EXHIBITS
APPROVED

FEDERAL PURCHASE 

PROGRAM SPECIFICATION 

(FPPS) FOR COARSE 

GROUND BEEF ITEMS, 

FROZEN

Agricultural Marketing Service (AMS)

Livestock, Poultry, and Seed (LPS) Program 

Food Safety and Commodity Specification (FSCS) Division

Room 2628 S-Bldg, Phone: (202) 692-0342

Supersedes: N/A

Effective: March 2015 

Approved by CMS 

Date Issued: 03/31/15

Date Revised: 

100 SCOPE

101 This FPPS – Coarse Ground Beef (CGB) – 2015 is for use by the 

Department of Agriculture (USDA), AMS, Commodity Procurement (CP) 

Staff to procure frozen Coarse Ground Beef products.

200 APPLICABLE DOCUMENTS

210 The following documents are incorporated as part of this USDA, FPPSCGB-2015: 

210.1 Quality Assessment (QA) Division Procedures Manual.

210.2 Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) Directive 10,010.1, Revision 3.

210.3 Applicable Supplement to AMS Master Solicitation.

300 CHECKLIST OF REQUIREMENTS

310 MATERIAL

311 The contractor’s technical proposal must describe a process plan with a 

documented quality control program that includes procedures, records, 

forms, etc., that demonstrate conformance with the following AMS 

Checklist of Requirements. FSCS Division may request changes to the 

technical proposal at any time.

312 Domestic Origin and Harvest (Slaughter) Requirements

312.1 Quality Control Program - The harvester’s quality control program must be 

documented in each contractor’s technical proposal and have received a 

satisfactory onsite capability assessment by QA Division. 

SUPPLEMENT 211 TO AMS MASTER SOLICITATION EXHIBIT A
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Date Issued: 03/31/15

Date Revised: 2

312.2 Boneless beef shall be derived from cattle harvested at facilities that 

comply with the following origin and harvest requirements. 

312.2.1 Domestic Origin - All beef will originate from U.S. produced livestock as 

defined in the Master Solicitation and Supplement. 

312.2.2 Humane Handling – All cattle shall be humanely handled in accordance 

with all applicable FSIS regulations and AMS requirements.

312.2.3 Residue Prevention – Harvest and production establishments must have a 

Hazard Analysis Critical Control Point (HACCP) system to control 

veterinary drug, pesticide, and environmental contaminant residues per 

FSIS regulations. Helpful information is available in the FSIS Compliance 

Guide for Residue Prevention 2013.

312.2.4 Spinal Cord Removal – All spinal cord tissue shall be removed during the 

harvesting process. 

312.2.5 Pathogen Intervention Steps – The harvest process must include at least 

two pathogen intervention steps. One of the intervention steps must be a 

critical control point (CCP) in the supplier’s FSIS recognized harvest 

process HACCP plan and the CCP intervention(s) must be scientifically 

validated to achieve a three-log reduction of enteric pathogens. 

312.2.6 Carcass Testing - Routinely test carcasses for Shiga-toxigenic Escherichia 

coli O157 (including O157:H7 and O157:Non-Motile (NM); herein referred 

to as E. coli O157:H7) at CCP to verify effectiveness of interventions.

320 Boneless Beef Requirements

320.1 Quality Control Program - The boneless beef supplier’s quality control 

program must be documented within each contractor’s technical proposal 

and have received a satisfactory onsite capability assessment by QA 

Division prior to supplying materials for the program. Additionally, each 

plant is subjected to verification audits conducted by the QA Division

during production activities that demonstrate their adherence to the 

documented quality control program. 

320.2 Traceability – Boneless beef shall be traceable to sources that comply 

with the above domestic origin and harvest requirements. 

320.3 Boneless beef commonly referred to by the industry as XF trimmings (e.g., 

Beef Fat with Visible Lean) is not allowed as a standalone raw material 

source for grinding. 

320.4 Meat Recovery Systems
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Date Revised: 3

320.4.1 Mechanical Separation - Boneless beef that is mechanically separated 

from bone with automatic deboning systems, advanced lean (meat) 

recovery (AMR) systems or powered knives, will not be allowed.

320.4.2 Lean Finely Textured Beef (LFTB) – Use of LFTB is not permitted.

320.5 Handling - All boneless beef must be maintained in excellent condition. 

The contractor’s technical proposal shall include detailed production 

scheduling that addresses time and temperature controls necessary to 

maintain excellent condition of the boneless beef.

320.5.1 Frozen boneless beef may be used provided it is ground into the final 

product within 60 days from the date of pack. 

320.6 Objectionable Materials – The following objectionable materials shall be 

excluded: 

320.6.1 Major lymph glands (prefemoral, popliteal, and prescapular), thymus 

gland, and the sciatic (ischiatic) nerve (lies medial to the outside round). 

All bone, cartilage, and the following heavy connective tissues:

320.6.1.1 White fibrous – Shoulder tendon, elbow tendon, silver skin (from the 

outside round), sacrociatic ligament, opaque periosteum, serous 

membrane (peritoneum), tendinous ends of shanks, gracilis membrane, 

patellar ligament (associated with the stifle joint), and achilles tendon. 

320.6.1.2 Yellow elastin – Back strap and abdominal tunic. 

320.7 Lot – A lot shall consist of approximately 2,000 pounds of boneless beef 

produced within a day, between “cleanup to cleanup” (see APPENDIX D) 

and that is from a single harvester or processor.

320.8 Microbial Testing - Samples from all lots of fresh chilled boneless beef, 

must be sent to an AMS designated laboratory (ADL). Samples from each 

lot will be tested for E. coli O157:H7, Salmonella, and indicator 

microorganisms. One sample from every 10 lots of fresh chilled boneless 

beef, selected at random by the ADL, will be tested for non-O157 STECs 

(O26, O45, O103, O111, O121, O145). 

323.8.1 Sample Preparation and Handling - The ADL will be responsible for 

supplying procedures for sample preparation, and submission. The 

laboratory shall require suppliers to submit a sample submission form as 

an official record with each sample. The ADL will also be responsible for 

supplying shipping supplies (including sampling bags and shipping 

materials) to each supplier. Suppliers’ technical proposal will include and 

describe sample collection and preparation procedures provided by the 

ADL.
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Date Issued: 03/31/15

Date Revised: 4

323.8.2 Sample Selection

323.8.2.1 For Beef Manufacturing Trimmings – The sample will be selected as 

described within FSIS Directive 10,010.1 Revision 3 (N-60 Sections 8, 9 

and NOTE).

323.8.2.2 For every lot of beef Manufacturing Trimmings, two (2) samples will be 

prepared from sixty five (65) pieces of trim from sixty five (65) different 

pieces of beef product. The sample for co-analysis of E. coli O157:H7, 

non-O157 STECs and Salmonella will be sixty (60) pieces and weigh 325 

grams ± 10 percent; the sample for indicator microorganisms (aerobic 

plate count, total coliform and generic E. coli) will be five (5) pieces and 

weigh 25 grams ± 10 percent.

323.8.2.3 Alternative sampling methods may be used provided they are approved by 

AMS as equivalent to the manual excision protocols referenced in Section 

323.9.2.1. The suppliers’ technical proposal will include and describe any 

proposed alternative sample collection and preparation methods and 

procedures.

323.8.2.4 When boneless beef has been exposed to any anti-microbial treatment, no 

sample units shall be selected for at least 15 minutes after such treatment. 

All anti-microbial treatments (e.g. techniques and procedures) 

administered during production and post-production shall be described in 

the supplier’s technical proposal.

323.8.2.5 If the contractor plans to do microbiological testing in addition to that 

required by AMS, the technical proposal must identify in detail such 

testing, including location of sample collection, frequency of sample 

collection, and intended use of testing results. AMS will make a 

determination of whether such additional sampling and testing constitutes 

“prescreening,” in which case it will not be allowed.

323.8.3 Testing and Results

323.8.3.1 The microbiological testing for all organisms will be in accordance with the 

applicable AMS-approved testing methodologies.

323.8.3.2 Notification for presence of pathogens and exceeding critical limit criteria -

When presence of E. coli O157:H7, non-O157 STECs, or Salmonella is 

confirmed positive or any critical limit is exceeded for indicator organisms:

323.8.3.2.1 The ADL will immediately notify FSIS and the FSCS Division of all 

confirmed pathogens.

323.8.3.2.2 When pathogen results are positive, FSIS and the FSCS Division will be 

notified by the boneless beef supplier of the final disposition of the 

affected lot.
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Date Issued: 03/31/15

Date Revised: 5

323.8.3.2.3 When the critical limit is exceeded for indicator microorganisms, the 

boneless beef supplier will notify the FSCS Division of the final disposition 

of the affected lot.

323.8.3.3 The ADL will record all results on spreadsheets and calculate the process 

capability (CPU, Cl) for microbial tests performed on production lots as 

outlined in Section 323.9.4.

323.8.3.4 Any lot that tests positive for E. coli O157:H7, non-O157 STECs, or

Salmonella, or exceeds the critical limit criteria of APPENDIX B cannot be 

used to produce ground beef or any other product purchased by USDA.

323.8.4 Statistical Process Capability – Boneless beef supplier compliance with 

microbial requirements will be based on the assessment of the calculated 

process capability (CPU, Cl) values derived from the individual combo test 

results representing one (1) 2,000 pound combo lot randomly selected by 

the ADL from every five (5) consecutive individual 2,000 pound combo lots 

produced each production day. In the event that a production day 

concludes with less than five (5) consecutive individual 2,000 pound 

combo lots, a randomly selected test result will be utilized from one of the 

remaining lots. The spreadsheets will be maintained so that process 

capability assessment on the twenty (20) lots can be determined as 

described within APPENDIX B. Test results involving all boneless beef 

offered for testing for AMS ground beef purchase programs will be 

monitored by AMS, the contractor, and the boneless beef supplier to 

determine individual lot acceptance and/or capability of their process 

according to APPENDIX B. Ineligible boneless beef suppliers may reenter the program under conditional status provided corrective actions 

have been submitted for review and approved, implemented and a 

satisfactory onsite corrective action audit by QA Division has been 

conducted. Upon notification by the FSCS Division that the plan has 

adequately addressed the issues that resulted in the ineligible status 

determination, the boneless beef supplier may re-enter the program under 

conditional status. 

323.8.5 Contractor’s Responsibility - The contractor will require its boneless beef 

supplier(s) to provide results and process capability status (as applicable) 

involving each lot of boneless beef to be processed into ground beef for 

USDA. Test results and process capability status (as applicable) for 

individual lots shall be provided to the QA Division agent upon request. In 

the event a boneless beef supplier has been deemed ineligible, and wants 

to continue in the program, the ineligible boneless beef supplier may reenter the program under conditional status provided corrective actions 

have been submitted for review and have been deemed approved, 

implemented and a satisfactory onsite corrective action audit by QA 

Division has been conducted. Upon notification by the FSCS Division that 

the plan has adequately addressed the issues that resulted in the ineligible

status determination the boneless beef supplier may re-enter the program 

under conditional status.
Approved by CMS

Date Issued: 03/31/15

Date Revised: 6

323.8.6 Supplier request to remove samples from AMS testing must be submitted 

and approved by FSCS Division prior to sample removal from ADL testing.

324 Coarse Ground Beef Item Requirements

324.1 Quality Control Program - The Coarse Ground Beef items quality control 

program must be documented within the contractor’s technical proposal 

and have received a satisfactory onsite capability assessment audit by QA 

Division. 

324.2 Traceability – All Coarse Ground Beef items production must be traceable 

to the boneless beef lots and their associated microbial test results.

324.3 Handling - The contractor’s technical proposal shall include detailed 

production scheduling that addresses time and temperature controls 

necessary to maintain excellent condition of the Coarse Ground Beef

items. Coarse Ground Beef items shall be delivered within 60 days from 

date of pack. 

324.4 Lot - For the purpose of microbiological testing, a lot is defined as the

amount of finished Coarse Ground Beef product produced within a day, 

between “cleanup to cleanup” (see APPENDIX D) which must be further 

divided into sub-lots not to exceed 10,000 pounds.

324.5 Microbial Sampling and Testing Options – The Contracting Officer will 

specify in the purchase solicitation and corresponding documents TYPE 1 

and TYPE 2 Coarse Ground Beef Products, which will determine the level 

of microbial testing required. 

324.6 Microbial Testing – TYPE 1 - Coarse Ground Beef for Further Processing 

into Fully Cooked Items - All sub-lots of Coarse Ground Beef for Further 

Processing into Fully Cooked Items will be tested for all indicator 

microorganisms (aerobic plate count, total coliform and generic E. coli)

after final grinding and before freezing. All samples will be sent to the 

ADL.

324.6.1 Sample Preparation and Handling - The ADL will be responsible for 

supplying procedures for sample preparation, and submission. The ADL

shall require contractors to submit a sample submission form as an official 

record with each sample. Samples of TYPE 1 Coarse Ground Beef for 

Further Processing into Fully Cooked Items must be appropriately 

identified on the ADL sample submission form. The ADL will also be 

responsible for supplying shipping supplies (including sampling bags and 

shipping materials) to each contractor. Contractor’s technical proposal will 

include and describe sample collection and preparation procedures 

provided by the ADL.
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Date Issued: 03/31/15

Date Revised: 7

324.6.2 Sample Selection – Production processes of Coarse Ground Beef for 

Further Processing into Fully Cooked Items will be subject to the following 

sampling strategy:

324.6.2.1 Sub-lot Microbial Testing – For every sub-lot, one (1) original and reserve 

sample will be prepared from four (4) individual sample units for indicator 

organism (aerobic plate count, total coliform and generic E. coli) testing. 

The sub-lot samples will be 25 grams ± 10 percent randomly selected 

throughout each 10,000 pounds of production. The four (4) individual 

sample units shall be composited to produce a sample that represents the 

indicator organism test for each sub-lot. The contractor will describe in 

their technical proposal the procedure in which the four (4) sample units 

will be selected throughout the sub-lot to be composited for the indicator 

organism test. These samples shall be submitted to the ADL for analysis. 

The reserve samples will be held for testing in case the FSCS Division

deems it necessary. The contractor will describe, in their technical 

proposal the method to be used to maintain the identity and traceability of 

each sub-lot. No more than 10,000 pounds shall be produced during each 

sub-lot, except for the last sub-lot produced in the lot may exceed the 

10,000 pound limitation by five (5) percent. 

324.6.3 Testing and Results - The samples from each sub-lot will be analyzed by 

the ADL for all organisms listed in APPENDIX B. 

324.6.3.1 The microbiological testing for indicator microorganisms will be in 

accordance with the applicable AMS-approved testing methodologies.

324.6.3.2 Any sub-lot with any critical limit criteria noted in APPENDIX B that is 

exceeded will result in that sub-lot and adjoining sub-lots (one preceding 

and one following within a day, between “clean up to clean up”) being 

ineligible for this program or any other USDA purchase program. Other 

sub-lots produced within the lot unit will be deemed ineligible for this 

program unless the contractor can demonstrate a scientific or other datasupported basis for defining the sub-lot(s) relative to test results and why 

coarse ground beef produced from same source material that resulted in 

the ineligible determination should not be considered affected by the test 

results.

324.6.3.3 When any critical limit is exceeded for indicator microorganisms, FSIS and 

the FSCS Division will be notified by the contractor of the final disposition 

of the product.

324.6.3.4 The ADL will record all results on spreadsheets and calculate the process 

capability (CPU) for microbial tests performed on sub-lots as outlined in 

Section 324.6.3.5.
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Date Issued: 03/31/15

Date Revised: 8

324.6.3.5 Statistical Process Capability - The ADL will record the results on 

spreadsheets and calculate the process capability (CPU) value for all sublot microbial tests performed. The spreadsheets will be maintained so that 

process capability may be determined according to the requirements 

within APPENDIX B. The spreadsheets will be maintained so that process 

capability assessment on each twenty (20) sub-lot grouping can be 

determined as described within APPENDIX B. Test results will be 

monitored by the contractor and FSCS Division to determine acceptability 

of the process according to APPENDIX B. Ineligible contractors may reenter the program under conditional status provided corrective actions 

have been submitted for review and approved, implemented and a 

satisfactory onsite corrective action audit by QA Division has been 

conducted. Upon notification by the FSCS Division that the plan has 

adequately addressed the issues that resulted in the ineligible status 

determination, the contractor may re-enter the program under conditional 

status. 

324.6.3.6 Contractor request to remove samples from AMS testing must be 

submitted and approved by FSCS Division prior to sample removal from 

ADL testing.

324.7 Microbial Testing – TYPE 2 - Coarse Ground Beef - All sub-lots of Coarse 

Ground Beef will be tested for E. coli O157:H7, Salmonella, and indicator 

microorganisms as listed in APPENDIX B after final grinding and before 

freezing. All samples will be sent to the ADL.

324.7.1 Sample Preparation and Handling - The ADL will be responsible for 

supplying procedures for sample preparation, and submission. The 

laboratory shall require contractors to submit a sample submission form as 

an official record with each sample. The ADL will also be responsible for 

supplying shipping supplies (including sampling bags and shipping 

materials) to each contractor. Contractor’s technical proposal will include 

and describe sample collection and preparation procedures provided by 

the ADL.

324.7.2 Sample Selection – Production processes of Coarse Ground Beef will be 

subject to the following sampling strategy:

324.7.2.1 Sub-lot Microbial Testing – For every sub-lot, two (2) original and reserve 

samples will be prepared from four (4) individual sample units for each 

microbial test. The sub-lot samples will be 325 grams ± 10 percent for coenrichment of E. coli O157:H7 and Salmonella and 25 grams ± 10 percent 

for indicator organism tests, respectively of finished ground beef, randomly 

selected throughout each 10,000 pounds of production. The four (4) 

individual sample units shall be composited to produce a sample that 

represents each microbial test for each sub-lot. The contractor will 

describe in their technical proposal the procedure in which the four (4) 

sample units will be selected throughout the sub-lot to be composited for 

each microbial test. These samples shall be submitted to the ADL for 
Approved by CMS

Date Issued: 03/31/15

Date Revised: 9

analysis. The reserve samples will be held for testing in case the FSCS 

Division deems it necessary. The contractor will describe, in their 

technical proposal the method to be used to maintain the identity and 

traceability of each sub-lot. No more than 10,000 pounds shall be 

produced during each sub-lot, except for the last sub-lot produced in the 

lot may exceed the 10,000 pound limitation by five (5) percent. 

324.7.3 Testing and Results - The samples from each sub-lot will be analyzed by 

the ADL for all organisms listed in APPENDIX B. 

324.7.3.1 The microbiological testing for all organisms will be in accordance with the 

applicable AMS-approved testing methodologies.

324.7.3.2 Any sub-lot that tests positive for E. coli O157:H7 or Salmonella, or any 

critical limit criteria noted in APPENDIX B that is exceeded will result in 

that sub-lot and adjoining sub-lots (one preceding and one following within 

a day, between “clean up to clean up”) being ineligible for this program or 

any other USDA purchase program. Other sub-lots produced within the 

lot unit will be deemed ineligible for this program unless the contractor can 

demonstrate a scientific or other data-supported basis for defining the sublot(s) relative to test results and why Coarse Ground Beef produced from 

same source material that resulted in the ineligible determination should 

not be considered affected by the test results.

324.7.3.3 Notification for presence of pathogens or when critical limit is exceeded –

When presence of E. coli O157:H7 or Salmonella is presumptive positive 

or confirmed positive; or any critical limit is exceeded for indicator 

organisms:

324.7.3.3.1 The ADL will immediately notify FSIS and the FSCS Division of all 

confirmed pathogens.

324.7.3.3.2 When pathogens results are positive, FSIS and the FSCS Division will be 

notified by the contractor of the final disposition of the product.

324.7.3.3.3 When the critical limit is exceeded for indicator microorganisms, FSIS and 

the FSCS Division will be notified by the contractor of the final disposition 

of the product.

324.7.3.3.4 Coarse Ground Beef associated with the positive pathogen test results or 

critical limit exceeded results will be ineligible for any USDA purchase 

program.

324.7.3.4 The ADL will record all results on spreadsheets and calculate the process 

capability (CPU, Cl) for microbial tests performed on sub-lots as outlined 

in Section 324.7.3.5.
Approved by CMS

Date Issued: 03/31/15

Date Revised: 10

324.7.3.5 Statistical Process Capability - The ADL will record the results on 

spreadsheets and calculate the process capability (CPU or Cl) value for all 

sub-lot microbial tests performed. The spreadsheets will be maintained so 

that process capability may be determined according to the requirements 

within APPENDIX B. The spreadsheets will be maintained so that process 

capability assessment on each twenty (20) sub-lot grouping can be 

determined as described within APPENDIX B. Test results will be 

monitored by the contractor and FSCSD to determine acceptability of the 

process according to APPENDIX B. Ineligible contractors may re-enter 

the program under conditional status provided corrective actions have 

been submitted for review and approved, implemented and a satisfactory 

onsite corrective action audit by QA Division has been conducted. Upon 

notification by the FSCS Division that the plan has adequately addressed 

the issues that resulted in the ineligible status determination, the 

contractor may re-enter the program under conditional status. 

324.7.3.6 Contractor request to remove samples from AMS testing must be 

submitted and approved by FSCS Division prior to sample removal from 

ADL testing.

330 PROCESSING

331 The contractor’s technical proposal and process shall assure compliance 

with the following requirements:

331.1 Grinding and Blending

331.1.1 Coarse Ground Beef items - Boneless beef shall pass at least once 

through a grinding plate that is no smaller than 3⁄4-inch or no larger than a 

1.0-inch. Blending after final grinding is allowed only to the extent that it 

doesn’t affect the appearance of the finished Coarse Ground Beef items.

331.1.2 Fat Break-Outs - The grinding, blending, and packaging process shall be 

conducted in a manner that precludes large fat “break outs” (solid chunks 

of fat greater than 1.0 cubic inch) or objectionable fat “smears” in the 

finished product. 

331.2 Metal Detection - All product shall be free of metal contaminates. 

Detection of stainless steel, ferrous, and non-ferrous (e.g., lead, copper, 

and aluminum) metals is required. The contractor's technical proposal 

must identify and describe the equipment, location, detection procedure, 

sensitivity levels, frequency of equipment validation, and corrective action 

procedures. 

331.3 Equipment – All equipment used to produce Coarse Ground Beef items for 

USDA shall be maintained and routinely checked for optimal performance. 

340 STATE OF REFRIGERATION
Approved by CMS

Date Issued: 03/31/15

Date Revised: 11

341 Coarse Ground Beef items shall be frozen to 00F within 72 hours after 

completion of the final grinding of the involved lot. 

342 Coarse Ground Beef items will be stored, shipped, and delivered at 

temperatures that do not exceed 0oF.

350 FAT LIMITATIONS

351 The contractors will establish a target average of 15 percent fat. The 

upper and lower specifications limits will be 18 and 12 percent fat 

respectively. The target fat content will be declared on the shipping 

container label and the nutrition facts panel. 

352 Contractor Process Assessment - The contractor shall declare the 

production lot size, laboratory, test method, and SPC methodologies in 

their technical proposal.

352.1 Sampling and testing - The contractor will randomly select four individual 

sample units (selected after initial grinding or blending) to be analyzed for 

fat content from each production lot destined for USDA. The sample unit 

size will be determined by the testing method used by the contractor’s 

laboratory.

352.2 Recording results - The contractor will record the results on spreadsheets. 

The calculated process capability (Cpk/CPU) value (as discussed in 

APPENDIX A) will be used to determine if the process is in statistical 

control. Under contractor process assessment, no production lots shall be 

allowed delivery to USDA with average test results that are outside the 

upper or lower specification limits. 

352.3 Process Capability Assessment - Twenty (20) consecutive production lot 

results (that include the last production lot) will be recorded on 

spreadsheets for capability assessment by the contractor and the AMS 

agent. The processor’s capability (Cpk/CPU) shall be one or higher. 

353 AMS Process Assessment – For the first 20 production lots, the AMS 

agent will direct the contractor to randomly select samples, each 

consisting of four sample units. For Coarse Ground Beef items, each 

initial sample unit shall not exceed 10 pounds. Initial sample units may be 

blended and/or further reduced in size. From each initial sample unit a 

final sample unit will consist of 200 – 300 grams each. Each sample unit 

shall be independent from those samples selected for contractor process 

assessment and sent to the ADL for fat analysis. The ADL will be 

responsible for supplying sampling protocol, all sample handling materials, 

and sampling methods (including sample unit size to be submitted to the 

ADL, preparation, handling of reserve samples, etc.) for sample 

preparation and submission. The ADL will record the results on 

spreadsheets and submit them to the contractor and AMS for comparison 

to the contractor’s process assessment. After 20 consecutive results, the 
Approved by CMS

Date Issued: 03/31/15

Date Revised: 12

contractor shall notify the FSCS Division immediately and declare what 

immediate corrective and preventative actions will be taken when:

353.1 The ADL calculated process average fat results (mean) varies more than 

one (1) percent from the contractor’s calculated process average results, 

or;

353.2 The calculated process capability (Cpk/CPU) is less than one for results 

from either the contractor’s designated laboratory or the ADL. 

353.3 The contractor must notify the FSCS Division that the process is not 

capable for fat and then sample and test an additional 20 consecutive 

results that must meet the criteria for AMS Process Assessment. Change 

in status begins after a cause and effect analysis has been performed and 

corrective actions have been implemented. If the contractor remains in 

Unreliable Status after the additional 20 consecutive lots, a cause and 

effect analysis must be performed and corrective actions submitted within 

5 business days to AMS for review and approval. If the contractor still 

remains in Unreliable Status after the second round of 20 consecutive lots 

a cause and effect analysis must be performed and corrective actions 

submitted within 5 business days to AMS for review and approval, 

implemented and a satisfactory AMS assessment audit has been 

completed. The FSCS Division reserves the right to deem a contractor as 

Unreliable for consideration on future contract awards when corrective or 

preventative actions are not adequate or effective or the contractor is 

unresponsive in declaring status or submitting corrective actions.

354 Continuous AMS Assessment – If AMS process assessment is 

satisfactory, the AMS agent will direct the contractor when to randomly 

select samples (each consisting of four sample units) from a production 

lot. No more than two production lot samples are sent to the ADL on a 

weekly basis. The ADL will continually record 20 consecutive results 

(always including the last recorded result as defined within APPENDIX D) 

on spreadsheets and submit the calculated process capability (Cpk/CPU) 

value to the contractor and AMS. The ADL’s calculated process capability 

(Cpk/CPU) value will continually be compared to the contractor’s 

calculated process capability (Cpk, CPU) value as each contractor’s test 

result is recorded to conduct the AMS Process Assessment as described 

above (using 20 consecutive results).

360 PREPARATION FOR DELIVERY

361 The contractor’s technical proposal and process will assure that all 

packaging, packing, closure, marking, and palletization comply with the 

National Motor Freight Regulations and FSIS regulations and the 

requirements listed below. The contractor also must have procedures for 

verifying the net weight of shipping containers. 

362 Packaging and Packing
Approved by CMS

Date Issued: 03/31/15

Date Revised: 13

362.1 All immediate containers shall function as a tamper evidence indicator to 

provide added assure of product integrity through the method of sealing or 

closure. 

362.2 Coarse Ground Beef items must be bulk packaged (with no packaging 

materials) directly into leak-proof shipping containers with fiberboard that 

is wax impregnated, has a moisture barrier coating, or have plastic 

laminated interior panels. 

362.3 Style and Size of Shipping Containers - Only one style and size of 

immediate and shipping container may be used in any one delivery unit.

363 Shipping Container Net Weight

363.1 Using SPC tools, the contractor shall assure the following net weight:

363.1.2 Coarse Ground Beef items - will be packed to a net weight of 60 pounds.

364 Closure

364.1 Shipping containers will be closed by strapping, taping or gluing. When 

strapping is used, the initial closure (usually the bottom of container) shall 

be secured by the gluing or taping method. 

365 Marking of Containers*

365.1 Shipping containers will have a printed code that includes the 

establishment number and is traceable to the production lot and date. All 

container markings shall include all information required by FSIS along 

with the additional information listed below: 

365.2 Shipping Containers - Commercially marked shipping containers will 

include the information as follows:

365.2.1 USDA Shield (at least 2 inches high and appearing on the top of the 

container or on the principal display panel). 

362.2.2 Applicable Purchase Order Number.

*All labeling shall be illustrated in the Contractor’s technical proposal.
Approved by CMS

Date Issued: 03/31/15

Date Revised: 14

362.2.3 The product name and material number – Coarse Ground Beef for Further 

Processing into Fully Cooked Items and Coarse Ground Beef. Material 

Number 100154.

362.2.4 Fat Declaration – 15% Fat.

362.2.5 Nutrition Facts panel to include fat declaration of 15 grams of fat per 100 

grams serving size.

362.2.6 Ingredient declaration (including single ingredient products).

362.2.7 An allergen statement in a format which complies with the Food Allergen 

Labeling and Consumer Protection Act (FALCPA) for any product which 

contains milk, eggs, fish, crustacean shellfish, tree nuts, peanuts, soy or 

wheat; e.g. Allergen: This product contains ______.

363 Palletized Unit Loads

363.1 All products shall be stacked on new or well-maintained pallets and 

palletized with shrink wrap plastic. 

364 Total Net Weights Per Delivery Unit

364.1 The delivery unit will be 42,000 pounds. No tolerances will be allowed.

365 Sealing

365.1 All products must be delivered to AMS assigned destinations under seal 

with tamper proof, tamper resistant, serially numbered, high security seals 

that meet the American Society for Testing and Materials Standard

(ASTM) F1157-04 and/or the International Organization for Standards 

(ISO) 17712-2010 as required under the Master Solicitation. Seals shall 

be 1⁄8th-inch diameter cable, high-security bolt, or equivalent.

370 USDA QUALITY ASSURANCE

371 Warranty and Complaint Resolution

371.1 Warranty - The contractor will guarantee that the product complies with all 

specification requirements, technical proposal declarations, and provisions 

set forth in the Master Solicitation. 

371.2 Complaint Resolution - Customer complaint resolution procedures will be 

included in the technical proposal. These procedures will include: a point 

of contact, investigation steps, intent to cooperate with AMS, and product 

replacement or monetary compensation. The procedures will be used to 

resolve product complaints from recipient agencies or AMS.

372 AMS Monitoring and Production Assessment
Approved by CMS

Date Issued: 03/31/15

Date Revised: 15

372.1 A QA Division agent must be present during the production of the finished 

product for all USDA coarse ground beef contracts. The QA Division

agent will monitor and verify the processing steps, quality assurance 

activities, and any corrective actions to assure that all requirements

outlined in the approved technical proposal are complied with. The QA 

Division agent will be conducting the monitoring and production verification 

in accordance with applicable QA Division procedures. Any deviations to 

contractual requirements will be reported to the contractor and FSCS

Division. The FSCS Division will make all determinations as to the 

acceptability of the product relative to findings documented by the QA 

Division agent.

373 Control of Non-Conforming Product

373.1 The contractor must include a plan to assure that non-conforming product 

(i.e., boneless beef, coarse ground beef) is not delivered under USDA 

contracts. The plan must address 1) control and segregation of nonconforming product, 2) removal of any USDA markings, and 3) disposition 

of non-conforming product, including vendor notification in writing to the 

FSCS Division of final disposition (e.g., diverted to cooked product or 

destroyed).

374 Contractor Checkloading

374.1 Contractor will perform checkloading examinations at the time of shipment 

and issue contractor’s certificate to accompany each shipment that 

includes all of the following information:

374.1.1 Purchase Order Number/Purchase Order Line Item Number;

374.1.2 Sales Order Number/Sales Order Line Item Number;

374.1.3 Destination of shipment;

374.1.4 Name of Product and applicable Material Number;

374.1.5 Shipping Date;

374.1.6 Production lot number(s) and date each lot was produced along with 

shipping container and immediate container code(s) and the code used 

that provides traceability to establishment number, production lot and 

date;

374.1.7 Count of shipping containers and total projected net weight in each 

production lot;

374.1.8 Identity of car or truck (car numbers and letters, seals, truck license, etc.) 

as applicable;
Approved by CMS

Date Issued: 03/31/15

Date Revised: 16

374.1.9 Contractor certification that product conforms with the applicable 

specification (FPPS-CGB-2015);

374.1.10 Count and projected net weight verified and;

374.1.11 Signature of company official responsible for checkloading.
Approved by CMS

Date Issued: 03/31/15

Date Revised: 17

APPENDIX A

DATA ENTRY AND PROCESS CAPABILITY VALUES

Data Entry

The ADL will record microbiological and fat test results on spreadsheets and to have 

those spreadsheets readily available to AMS and its contractors/suppliers. Quantitative 

(plate count) results will be expressed as colony forming units (CFU) per gram or per ml 

reflecting the original sample measurement. Test results will be entered as a whole 

number (i.e., no decimal places, no preceding < (less than) symbol). Qualitative results 

for E. coli O157:H7, each of the non-O157 STEC serotypes, and Salmonella will be 

recorded as a 1 for a positive results and as a 0 for negative results. 

The ADL will provide the calculated process capability values (CPU, Cpk and Cl) in the 

spreadsheets so that the supplier’s process capability assessment can be determined, 

as described in APPENDIX B. 

Process Capability Values – CPU or Cpk 

The process capability value (CPU or Cpk) 

is calculated by the ADL. CPU will be used 

for microbiological tests and for Beef

Patties – 90/10 fat tests since these 

requirements only have an upper 

specification limit. Cpk will be used for fat 

testing requirements that have an upper 

and lower specification limit (see section 

3.5). The upper specification limits (USL) 

for microbiological requirements will be 

found in APPENDIX B. The calculations 

for CPU and Cpk are as 

follows:Calculation of process capability 

(CPU) with an upper specification limit 

only

Step 1. The first calculation will determine 

the Z-value (upper):

Z-value (upper) = (USL – Process 

Average) / Standard Deviation

Step 2. The Z-value divided by 3 will 

calculate the CPU:

CPU = Z-value (upper) / 3

Calculation of process capability (Cpk) 

with an upper and lower specification 

limit

Step 1. The first set of calculations will 

determine the smaller value of the two Zvalues (upper or lower):

Z-value (upper) = (USL – Process 

Average) / Standard Deviation

Z-value (lower) = (Process Average –

LSL) / Standard Deviation

Step 2. The smaller of the two Z-values 

(upper or lower) divided by 3 will calculate 

the Cpk.

CPU = Z-value (smaller value of the 

upper or lower) / 3

Process Capability Value – Cl

The central line (Cl; x-bar) is the process average or arithmetic mean that indicates the 

incidence of positive E. coli O157:H7 and Salmonella results. Results from non-O157 

STECs are not used to calculate process capability.
Approved by CMS

Date Issued: 03/31/15

Date Revised: 18

APPENDIX B

AMS BONELESS & COARSE GROUND BEEF ITEMS PROCESS REQUIREMENTS 

FLOW CHART

Quality Control Program – Prior to bidding on 

ground beef contracts with the USDA, the 

documented quality control program as 

described within the approved technical 

proposal (raw material suppliers and grinders) 

must have received a satisfactory onsite 

capability assessment by QA Division. AMS 

will audit and monitor the program. The quality 

control program must specifically address 

management of microbial data to comply with 

the AMS Process Requirements Flow Chart 

and the following descriptions.

Process Assessment Status - A process 

assessment involves sampling and testing of 

20 consecutive lots or sub-lots (which will 

include the last recorded result as defined 

within APPENDIX D) of boneless beef (see 

Section 320.8.5) or Coarse Ground Beef items

(see Section 324.7.3.5) destined for USDA 

contracts for the organisms listed within the 

table below. 

Process Capable? – Flow chart decision step 

that involves test results for up to 20 

consecutive SPC only lots or sub-lots (which 

will include the last recorded result) recorded in 

spreadsheets, where the process capability 

(CPU or Cl) value is calculated (See 

APPENDIX A) for evaluation. A process that is 

not capable shall be declared to the FSCS 

Division immediately when results are known 

and will result in switching from process 

assessment status to conditional status or

switching from conditional status to ineligible 

status when:

 The CPU values do not meet the levels 

specified in the table below;

 The Cl values do not meet the levels specified in the table below for Salmonella

or E. coli O157:H7;

 Two results exceed any of the critical limits in the table below; * or

 After 2 or more results, the CPU value is negative.*

*Immediate action will be taken prior to completion of 20 lots or sub-lots.

Quality Control Program 

Approved by AMS

Process Assessment 

Status

Process 

Capable?

Conditional Status

Not to exceed 60 calendar days

Process 

Capable?

Ineligible Status

Satisfactory 

AMS 

Assessment 

Audit?

Yes

No

No

Yes

Yes

AMS PROCESS 

REQUIREMENTS FLOW CHART

No
Approved by CMS

Date Issued: 03/31/15

Date Revised: 19

Conditional Status –To regain process capable status, the boneless beef supplier or 

contractor must notify the FSCS Division that the process is not capable, and then have 

20 consecutive results that meet the ‘Process Capable’ criteria within 60 calendar days 

or in accordance with a production schedule pre-approved by the FSCS Division. 

Change in status begins after a cause and effect analysis has been performed and 

corrective actions have been implemented. The boneless beef supplier or contractor 

may also declare itself ineligible at any time.

Ineligible Supplier/Contractor – An ineligible Boneless Beef Supplier or Ground Beef 

Contractor will not be allowed to supply boneless or ground beef products under USDA 

contracts until a cause and effect analysis has been performed and corrective actions 

have been submitted to AMS for review and approved, implemented and a satisfactory 

AMS assessment audit has been completed. Once satisfactorily becoming eligible, 

subsequent production will be under Conditional Status. The AMS FSCS Division

reserves the right to declare a boneless beef supplier or ground beef contractor 

ineligible at any time.

AMS MICROBIAL REQUIREMENTS FOR BONELESS & GROUND BEEF

Microbial Test USL (cfu) Critical Limits (cfu) CPU or Cl Value

Standard Plate Count 50,000 / gram 100,000 / gram CPU > 1

Total Coliforms 100 / gram 1,000 / gram CPU > 1

E. coli 100 / gram 500 / gram CPU > 1

Salmonella Positive (+) result / 25 

grams

Cl < 0.05

E. coli O157:H7 Positive (+) result / 325 

grams

Cl < 0.05
Approved by CMS

Date Issued: 03/31/15

Date Revised: 20

Figure 2

AMS Microbial and fat Results 12-7/20

Total Coliform Count

COMPANY = Noname's Packing

Individ.: cl: 47.7419 ucl: 179.465 lcl: -83.9811 * Rule violation

Subgrp Size 1

O

O O

O

O

O

O O O O O O

O

O

O

O O O

O

O

O

O

O

O

O

O

O

O

Individ.

cl

lcl

ucl

-100

-50

0

50

100

150

200

5 10 15 20 25 30 35 40

APPENDIX C

GLOSSARY OF TERMS

Cause and Effect Diagrams – A cause and 

effect analysis is used to identify the cause or 

source of non-conformities. It categorizes the 

source as derived from impact on a process 

presented by Human, Machinery, Material, 

Methods, Environment, and Measurement (Test). 

The Cause and Effect Diagram will assist in 

evaluating a process and assigning the 

appropriate control point (see Figure 1).

"Cleanup to cleanup" - Part of a HACCP 

program that the establishment has in place to 

support statistically distinguishing one portion of 

production from another. Production destined for USDA contracts is to be commenced 

on clean equipment. "Cleanup to cleanup" may be an effective means of preventing 

cross contamination of one part of production to another with E. coli O157:H7. 

However, "cleanup to cleanup" without other supporting documentation may not be 

adequate to statistically distinguish one portion of production from another. If a sample 

analysis yields a positive result, any product produced in the same time frame with the 

same process or equipment is suspect, unless an intervention occurred that would 

indicate a change in the status of the process/equipment.

Control Charts – A control chart is a 

run chart with statistically derived 

upper and lower control limits (ucl 

and lcl). The control chart 

demonstrates if a process is in 

statistical control. When properly 

designed, control charts provide an 

early warning of problems allowing 

for adjustments to be made before 

production of non-conforming 

products. Microbial test results may 

be plotted on control charts for 

individual measurements and fat test 

results may be plotted on control charts featuring average and range of the fat test 

results (See Figure 2). 

Effect

Cause Cause

Cause Cause

Cause

Cause

Cause

Cause

Cause

Cause

Cause

Cause

Cause

Cause

Cause

Cause

Cause

Cause

Cause

Figure 1
Approved by CMS

Date Issued: 03/31/15

Date Revised: 21

AMS Fat Data

Average Fat

Company = B

Samples: 20 Mean: 15.3664 Std Dev: .8421Cpk: 1.042 Spec Lim: ( 12, 18) Est % out: ( .0032012, .088179) Act % out: ( .0000, .0000)

Mean

-3sp +3sp

LSL USL

Target

0

2

4

6

8

10

12 13 14 15 16 17 18

Cpk – Process Capability Value (Cpk) is a capability analysis index used to determine if 

a process can meet specification limits. A Cpk value of 1 indicates that the process is 

producing at least 99.73% within the specification limit. Cpk values of 1 for many 

organizations have become the minimum requirement. However, the larger the Cpk 

values the better. Cpk differs from other process capability analyses since it considers 

the process average along with the distribution of test results. Since there is no lower 

specification limit for USDA microbial requirements, the calculation for Cpk will not 

involve relating the process average with a lower 

specification limit. 

CPU - Process Capability Value (CPU) is the 

same as Cpk except that there is no lower 

specification limit. The process performance 

index is correctly known as a Centered Process 

Capability Upper Specification Limit only (CPU) 

(See Figure 3).

Excellent Condition - All product must be in 

excellent condition (e.g., exposed lean and fat 

surfaces shall be of a color and bloom normally 

associated with the class, grade, and cut of meat 

and typical of meat which has been properly 

stored and handled). Cut surfaces and naturally exposed lean surfaces shall show no 

more than slight darkening or discoloration due to dehydration, aging, and/or microbial 

activity. The fat shall show no more than very slight discoloration due to oxidation or 

microbial activity. No odors foreign to fresh meat shall be present. Changes in color 

and odors characteristically associated with vacuum 

packaged meat in excellent condition shall be acceptable. 

Also, product shall show no evidence of mishandling. Beef 

must be maintained in excellent condition through 

processing, storage, and transit. 

Flow Charts – Flow charts depict all of the steps of a 

process. Standard symbols are used to identify the start, 

finish, processing steps and decision steps. It can be used 

to simplify a complex process so that it can be analyzed 

(Figure 4). 

Histograms – The histogram shows a pictorial 

representation of the frequency of distribution of microbial 

test results over time. Sometimes referred to as process 

capability charts, histograms compare the distribution of 

the test results with AMS specification requirements. Use 

histograms along with control charts to better understand 

process capability (See Figure 3). 

Start

Process Step

Decision

Finish

No

Yes

Figure 4

Figure 3
Approved by CMS

Date Issued: 03/31/15

Date Revised: 22

Figure 5

Pareto Diagrams – The Pareto diagram ranks the importance of different nonconformities. Typically, non-conformities are measured against frequency of 

occurrence. The Pareto analysis is helpful 

in identifying and justifying which problems 

will need to be solved first (see Figure 5).

Process – For the purpose of this 

specification, a single process involves the 

input of a raw material on a production line 

with a value added activity resulting in a 

output that can is be further processed or 

meet a customer’s need. A complex 

process involves output being another 

processes input. The production of ground beef is a complex process.

Process Capability Assessment on 20 consecutive lots – For the purpose of this 

specification, process capability assessments are conducted on data results from each 

lot for fat and microbial requirements. A process assessment involves sampling and 

testing of 20 consecutive lots (which always includes the last recorded result). 

Information from each lot will be evaluated with information from the preceding 19 lots 

(i.e., while in process assessment of the first 20 lots, the process was found to be 

capable, then assessment will continue on lot numbers 2-21). This has often been 

referred to as a ‘Rolling 20’. This assessment takes into account process variations that 

may be attributed to product, management, sources, and time (see Figure 6). 

Random Sampling – A process of selecting a sample from a lot whereby each unit in 

the lot has an equal chance of being selected and is representative of the lot’s 

production.

Statistical Process Control (SPC) – SPC is the primary analysis tool of quality 

improvement. The objective of any quality improvement strategy is to identify and 

reduce the amount of variation. SPC analyzes the variation in a process and is the 

applied science that assists suppliers to collect, organize and interpret microbial and fat 

test results on processing of ground beef destined for USDA. 

Figure 6

Boneless defects

Frequency (%) - Samples 1 to 9

CONN TIS

LYMPH

BONE

FATINT

BLOOD CL

Category

35

21

20

10

4

Count

0 5 10 15 20 25 30 35 40
Approved by CMS

Date Issued: 03/31/15

Date Revised: 23

SPC provides tools to help measure, identify, and eliminate variation from customer 

requirements (see Table 1). 

Tools for Statistical Process Control

Flow Charts Scatter Diagrams

Pareto Diagrams Run Charts

Cause and Effect Diagrams Control Charts

Histograms Capability Assessment

Upper and lower control limits (UCL and LCL) – Control limits are statistical 

calculations of the distribution of test results. Upper and lower control limits represent 

+/- 3 standard deviations of the process results. Data plotted outside the limits 

represent special causes of variation. A process may be considered “out of statistical 

control” when results are outside these limits. Upper and lower control limits are not to 

be confused with specification limits. A supplier wishing to be an eligible participant in 

the Coarse Ground Beef Program shall have a process that is capable of producing 

within the specification limits (See figure 2). 

Upper and lower specification limits (USL and LSL) – Normally, the customer sets 

the specification limits. The objective of the Ground Beef Purchase Program is to 

procure from ground beef processors that are statistically capable of meeting the upper 

specification limits specified within the FPPS-CGB. The specification limits reflect 

customer needs (See Figure 3). 

Table 1
APPROVED

FEDERAL PURCHASE 

PROGRAM SPECIFICATION 

(FPPS) FOR GROUND BEEF 

ITEMS, FROZEN

Agricultural Marketing Service (AMS)

Livestock, Poultry, and Seed (LPS) Program 

Food Safety and Commodity Specification (FSCS) Division

Room 2628 S-Bldg, Phone: (202) 692-0342

Supersedes: FPPS GB April 2014 – Changes from previous 

requirements in blue

Effective: March 2015

Approved by CMS 

Date Issued: 04/26/04

Date Revised: 03/31/15

100 SCOPE

101 This FPPS – Ground Beef (GB) – 2015 is for use by the Department of 

Agriculture (USDA), AMS, Commodity Procurement (CP) Staff to procure 

frozen ground beef products.

200 APPLICABLE DOCUMENTS

210 The following documents are incorporated as part of this USDA FPPS-GB2015: 

210.1 Quality Assessment (QA) Division Procedures Manual.

210.2 Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) Directive 10,010.1, Revision 3.

210.3 Applicable Supplement to AMS Master Solicitation.

300 CHECKLIST OF REQUIREMENTS

310 ITEMS

311 The contractor’s technical proposal will declare which items will be offered 

to USDA. Bulk or patties will be specified within USDA procurement 

documents.

SUPPLEMENT 211 TO AMS MASTER SOLICITATION EXHIBIT A1
Approved by CMS

Date Issued: 04/26/04

Date Revised: 03/31/15 2

312 Bulk

Item Material Number

Ground Beef (10-pound bulk packaged) 100158

Ground Beef-Irradiated 

(10-pound bulk packaged) 110085

Ground Beef, 1-pound packages 100159

Ground Beef (10-pound bulk packaged) 

(LFTB Optional) 110261

Ground Beef, 1-pound packages 

(LFTB Optional) 110260

313 Patties

Item Material Number

Ground Beef Patties-85/15 – 2.8 oz. 

(Meat / Meat Alternate (MMA) 2.0 oz.) 110349

Ground Beef Patties-85/15 – 2.1 oz. 

(MMA 1.5 oz.) 110350

Ground Beef Patties-Irradiated-85/15 – 2.8 oz. 

(MMA 2.0 oz.) 110082

Beef Patties with Soy Protein Product-85/15 –

2.8 oz. (MMA 2.0 oz.) 110348

Beef Patties with Soy Protein Product-85/15 –

2.1 oz. (MMA 1.5 oz.) 110347

Ground Beef Patties-90/10 – 2.8 oz. 

(MMA 2.0 oz.) (Not to Exceed 10% Fat) 110346

Lean Beef Patties-5% Fat 100163

Lean Beef Patties-5% Fat (LFTB Optional) 110270

320 MATERIAL

321 The contractor’s technical proposal must describe a process plan with a 

documented quality control program that includes procedures, records, 

forms, etc., that demonstrate conformance with the following AMS 

Checklist of Requirements. FSCS Division may request changes to the 

technical proposal at any time.

322 Domestic Origin and Harvest (Slaughter) Requirements

322.1 Quality Control Program - The harvester’s quality control program must be 

documented in each contractor’s technical proposal and have received a 

satisfactory onsite capability assessment by QA Division.

322.2 Boneless beef shall be derived from cattle harvested at facilities that 

comply with the following origin and harvest requirements. 
Approved by CMS

Date Issued: 04/26/04

Date Revised: 03/31/15 3

322.2.1 Domestic Origin - All beef will originate from U.S. produced livestock as 

defined in the Master Solicitation and Supplement. 

322.2.2 Humane Handling – All cattle shall be humanely handled in accordance 

with all applicable FSIS regulations and AMS requirements.

322.2.3 Residue Prevention – Harvest and production establishments must have a 

Hazard Analysis Critical Control Point (HACCP) system to control 

veterinary drug, pesticide, and environmental contaminant residues per 

FSIS regulations. Helpful information is available in the FSIS Compliance 

Guide for Residue Prevention 2013.

322.2.4 Spinal Cord Removal – All spinal cord tissue shall be removed during the 

harvesting process. 

322.2.5 Pathogen Intervention Steps – The harvest process must include at least 

two pathogen intervention steps. One of the intervention steps must be a 

critical control point (CCP) in the supplier’s FSIS recognized harvest 

process HACCP plan and the CCP intervention(s) must be scientifically 

validated to achieve a three-log reduction of enteric pathogens. 

322.2.6 Carcass Testing - Routinely test carcasses for Shiga-toxigenic Escherichia 

coli O157 (including O157:H7 and O157:Non-Motile (NM); herein referred 

to as E. coli O157:H7) at CCP to verify effectiveness of interventions.

323 Boneless Beef Requirements

323.1 Quality Control Program - The boneless beef supplier’s quality control 

program must be documented within each contractor’s technical proposal 

and have received a satisfactory onsite capability assessment by QA 

Division prior to supplying materials for the program. Additionally, each 

plant is subjected to verification audits conducted by the QA Division

during production activities that demonstrate their adherence to the 

documented quality control program. 

323.2 Traceability – Boneless beef shall be traceable to sources that comply 

with the above domestic origin and harvest requirements. 

323.3 Boneless beef commonly referred to by the industry as XF trimmings (e.g., 

Beef Fat with Visible Lean) is not allowed as a standalone raw material 

source for grinding. 

323.4 Meat Recovery Systems

323.4.1 Mechanical Separation - Boneless beef that is mechanically separated 

from bone with automatic deboning systems, advanced lean (meat) 

recovery (AMR) systems or powered knives, will not be allowed.
Approved by CMS

Date Issued: 04/26/04

Date Revised: 03/31/15 4

323.4.2 Lean Finely Textured Beef (LFTB) – When specified, LFTB, or meat 

components produced using similar methods may be used as a raw 

material provided a scientifically validated intervention is applied during 

the LFTB manufacturing process that reduces enteric pathogens by at 

least a three log basis. When LFTB is used, the following criteria must be 

met: 

323.4.2.1 Red Color – The producer of LFTB shall assure that the product has a 

discernible redness in color. The LFTB shall maintain the same redness 

in color until time of processing to minimize the effect of the color to the 

finished ground beef. 

323.4.2.2 Fat Content - Does not exceed 10 percent fat. 

323.5 Handling - All boneless beef must be maintained in excellent condition. 

The contractor’s technical proposal shall include detailed production 

scheduling that addresses time and temperature controls necessary to 

maintain excellent condition of the boneless beef.

323.5.1 Except for boneless beef destined for Ground Beef Products to be 

irradiated, frozen boneless beef may be used provided it is ground into the 

final product within 60 days from the date of pack. Boneless beef destined 

for irradiated ground beef shall never be frozen before grinding and shall 

be ground within five (5) days from harvest. 

323.5.2 The contractor shall document all procedures for handling of LFTB and 

must use it within 60 days of the date of production. 

323.6 Objectionable Materials – The following objectionable materials shall be 

excluded: 

323.6.1 Major lymph glands (prefemoral, popliteal, and prescapular), thymus 

gland, and the sciatic (ischiatic) nerve (lies medial to the outside round). 

All bone, cartilage, and the following heavy connective tissues:

323.6.1.1 White fibrous – Shoulder tendon, elbow tendon, silver skin (from the 

outside round), sacrociatic ligament, opaque periosteum, serous 

membrane (peritoneum), tendinous ends of shanks, gracilis membrane, 

patellar ligament (associated with the stifle joint), and achilles tendon. 

323.6.1.2 Yellow elastin – Back strap and abdominal tunic. 

323.7 Lot – A lot shall consist of approximately 2,000 pounds of boneless beef 

(including LFTB) produced within a day, between “cleanup to cleanup” 

(see APPENDIX D) and that is from a single harvester or processor.
Approved by CMS

Date Issued: 04/26/04

Date Revised: 03/31/15 5

323.8 Microbial Testing – Samples from all lots of fresh chilled boneless beef, 

including LFTB, must be sent to an AMS designated laboratory (ADL). 

Samples from each lot will be tested for E. coli O157:H7, Salmonella, and 

indicator microorganisms. One sample from every 10 lots of fresh chilled 

boneless beef (excluding LFTB), selected at random by the ADL, will be 

tested for non-O157 STECs (O26, O45, O103, O111, O121, O145).

323.8.1 Sample Preparation and Handling - The ADL will be responsible for 

supplying procedures for sample preparation, and submission. The ADL

shall require suppliers to submit a sample submission form as an official 

record with each sample. The ADL will also be responsible for supplying 

shipping supplies (including sampling bags and shipping materials) to 

each supplier. Suppliers’ technical proposal will include and describe 

sample collection and preparation procedures provided by the ADL.

323.8.2 Sample Selection

323.8.2.1 For Beef Manufacturing Trimmings – The sample will be selected as 

described within FSIS Directive 10,010.1 Revision 3 (N-60 Sections 8, 9 

and NOTE).

323.8.2.2 For every lot of beef Manufacturing Trimmings, two (2) samples will be 

prepared from sixty five (65) pieces of trim from sixty five (65) different 

pieces of beef product. The sample for co-enrichment of E. coli O157:H7,

non-O157 STECs and Salmonella will be sixty (60) pieces and weigh 325 

grams ± 10 percent; the sample for indicator microorganisms (aerobic 

plate count, total coliform and generic E. coli) will be five (5) pieces and 

weigh 25 grams ± 10 percent.

323.8.2.3 Alternative sampling methods may be used provided they are approved by 

AMS as equivalent to the manual excision protocols referenced in Section 

323.8.2.1. The suppliers’ technical proposal will include and describe any 

proposed alternative sample collection and preparation methods and 

procedures.

323.8.2.4 For LFTB – The random sample will be selected as described within FSIS 

Directive 10,010.1 Revision 3. The sample for co-enrichment of E. coli

O157:H7 and Salmonella will weigh 325 grams ± 10 percent; the sample 

for indicator microorganisms (aerobic plate count, total coliform and 

generic E. coli) will weigh 25 grams ± 10 percent.

323.8.2.5 When boneless beef has been exposed to any anti-microbial treatment, no 

sample units shall be selected for at least 15 minutes after such treatment. 

All anti-microbial treatments (e.g. techniques and procedures) 

administered during production and post-production shall be described in 

the supplier’s technical proposal.
Approved by CMS

Date Issued: 04/26/04

Date Revised: 03/31/15 6

323.8.2.6 If the contractor plans to do microbiological testing in addition to that 

required by AMS, the technical proposal must identify in detail such 

testing, including location of sample collection, frequency of sample 

collection, and intended use of testing results. AMS will make a 

determination of whether such additional sampling and testing constitutes 

“prescreening,” in which case it will not be allowed.

323.8.3 Testing and Results

323.8.3.1 The microbiological testing for all microbes will be in accordance with the 

applicable AMS-approved testing methodologies.

323.8.3.2 Notification for presence of pathogens and exceeding critical limit criteria -

When presence of E. coli O157:H7, non-O157 STECs, or Salmonella is 

confirmed positive or any critical limit is exceeded for indicator microbes:

323.8.3.2.1 The ADL will immediately notify FSIS and the FSCS Division of all 

confirmed pathogens.

323.8.3.2.2 When pathogen results are positive, FSIS and the FSCS Division will be 

notified by the boneless beef supplier of the final disposition of the 

affected lot.

323.8.3.2.3 When the critical limit is exceeded for indicator microorganisms, the 

boneless beef supplier will notify the FSCS Division of the final disposition 

of the affected lot.

323.8.3.3 The ADL will record all results on spreadsheets and calculate the process 

capability (CPU, Cl) for microbial tests performed on production lots as 

outlined in Section 323.8.4.

323.8.3.4 Any lot that tests positive for E. coli O157:H7, non-O157 STECs, or

Salmonella, or exceeds the critical limit criteria of APPENDIX B cannot be 

used to produce ground beef or any other product purchased by USDA.

323.8.4 Statistical Process Capability – Boneless beef supplier compliance with 

microbial requirements will be based on the assessment of the calculated 

process capability (CPU, Cl) values derived from the individual combo test 

results representing one (1) 2,000 pound combo lot randomly selected by 

the ADL from every five (5) consecutive individual 2,000 pound combo lots 

produced each production day. In the event that a production day 

concludes with less than five (5) consecutive individual 2,000 pound 

combo lots, a randomly selected test result will be utilized from one of the 

remaining lots. The spreadsheets will be maintained so that process 

capability assessment on the twenty (20) lots can be determined as 

described within APPENDIX B. Test results involving all boneless beef 

offered for testing for AMS ground beef purchase programs will be 

monitored by AMS, the contractor, and the boneless beef supplier to 

determine individual lot acceptance and/or capability of their process 
Approved by CMS

Date Issued: 04/26/04

Date Revised: 03/31/15 7

according to APPENDIX B. Ineligible boneless beef suppliers may reenter the program under conditional status provided corrective actions 

have been submitted for review and approved, implemented and a 

satisfactory onsite corrective action audit by QA Division has been 

conducted. Upon notification by the FSCS Division that the plan has 

adequately addressed the issues that resulted in the ineligible status 

determination, the boneless beef supplier may re-enter the program under 

conditional status. 

323.8.5 Contractor’s Responsibility - The contractor will require its boneless beef 

supplier(s) to provide results and process capability status (as applicable) 

involving each lot of boneless beef to be processed into ground beef for 

USDA. Test results and process capability status (as applicable) for 

individual lots shall be provided to the QA Division agent upon request. In 

the event a boneless beef supplier has been deemed ineligible, and wants 

to continue in the program, the ineligible boneless beef supplier may reenter the program under conditional status provided corrective actions 

have been submitted for review and have been deemed approved, 

implemented and a satisfactory onsite corrective action audit by QA 

Division has been conducted. Upon notification by the FSCS Division that 

the plan has adequately addressed the issues that resulted in the ineligible

status determination the boneless beef supplier may re-enter the program 

under conditional status.

323.8.6 Supplier request to remove samples from AMS testing must be submitted 

and approved by FSCS Division prior to sample removal from ADL testing.

324 Ground Beef Requirements

324.1 Quality Control Program - The ground beef quality control program must 

be documented within the contractor’s technical proposal and have 

received a satisfactory onsite capability assessment audit by QA Division. 

324.2 Traceability – All ground beef production must be traceable to the 

boneless beef lots (including LFTB) and their associated microbial test 

results.

324.3 Handling - The contractor’s technical proposal shall include detailed 

production scheduling that addresses time and temperature controls 

necessary to maintain excellent condition of the ground beef. Except for 

ground beef, 1-pound packages, all other ground beef items shall be 

delivered within 60 days from date of pack. Ground Beef 1-pound 

packages shall be delivered within 30 days from date of pack. 

324.4 Lot - For the purpose of microbiological testing, a lot is defined as the 

amount of finished ground beef product, for each material number, 

produced within a day, between “cleanup to cleanup” (see APPENDIX D) 

which must be further divided into sub-lots not to exceed 10,000 pounds.
Approved by CMS

Date Issued: 04/26/04

Date Revised: 03/31/15 8

324.5 Microbiological Testing – All sub-lots of ground beef will be tested for all 

microbes listed in APPENDIX B after final grinding and before freezing, 

except for ground beef products that are irradiated. The irradiated 

products will be tested for Salmonella and E. coli O157:H7 after the 

irradiation process, and the other microbes listed in APPENDIX B prior to 

irradiation. All samples will be sent to the ADL.

324.5.1 Sample Preparation and Handling - The ADL will be responsible for 

supplying procedures for sample preparation, and submission. The 

laboratory shall require contractors to submit a sample submission form as 

an official record with each sample. The ADL will also be responsible for 

supplying shipping supplies (including sampling bags and shipping 

materials) to each contractor. Contractor’s technical proposal will include 

and describe sample collection and preparation procedures provided by 

the ADL.

324.5.2 Sample Selection – Production processes of ground beef will be subject to 

the following sampling strategy:

324.5.2.1 Sub-lot Microbial Testing – For every sub-lot, two (2) original and reserve 

samples will be prepared from four (4) individual sample units for each 

microbial test. The sub-lot samples will be 325 grams ± 10 percent for coenrichment of E. coli O157:H7 and Salmonella and 25 grams ± 10 percent 

for indicator organism tests, respectively of finished ground beef, randomly 

selected throughout each 10,000 pounds of production. The four (4) 

individual sample units shall be composited to produce a sample that 

represents each microbial test for each sub-lot. The contractor will 

describe in their technical proposal the procedure in which the four (4) 

sample units will be selected throughout the sub-lot to be composited for 

each microbial test. These samples shall be submitted to the ADL for 

analysis. The reserve samples will be held for testing in case the FSCS 

Division deems it necessary. The contractor will describe, in their 

technical proposal the method to be used to maintain the identity and 

traceability of each sub-lot. No more than 10,000 pounds shall be 

produced during each sub-lot, except for the last sub-lot produced in the 

lot may exceed the 10,000 pound limitation by five (5) percent. 

324.5.3 Testing and Results - The samples from each sub-lot will be analyzed by 

the ADL for all microbes listed in APPENDIX B. 

324.5.3.1 The microbiological testing for all microbes will be in accordance with the 

applicable AMS-approved testing methodologies.

324.5.3.2 Any sub-lot that tests positive for E. coli O157:H7 or Salmonella, or any 

critical limit criteria noted in APPENDIX B that is exceeded will result in 

that sub-lot and adjoining sub-lots (one preceding and one following within 

a day, between “clean up to clean up”) being ineligible for this program or 

any other USDA purchase program. Other sub-lots produced within the 

lot unit will be deemed ineligible for this program unless the contractor can 
Approved by CMS

Date Issued: 04/26/04

Date Revised: 03/31/15 9

demonstrate a scientific or other data-supported basis for defining the sublot(s) relative to test results and why ground beef produced from same 

source material that resulted in the ineligible determination should not be 

considered affected by the test results.

324.5.3.3 Notification for presence of pathogens or when critical limit is exceeded –

When presence of E. coli O157:H7 or Salmonella is presumptive positive 

or confirmed positive; or any critical limit is exceeded for indicator 

microbes: 

324.5.3.3.1 The ADL will immediately notify FSIS and the FSCS Division of all 

confirmed pathogens.

324.5.3.3.2 When pathogens results are positive, FSIS and the FSCS Division will be 

notified by the contractor of the final disposition of the product.

324.5.3.3.3 When the critical limit is exceeded for indicator microorganisms, FSIS and 

the FSCS Division will be notified by the contractor of the final disposition 

of the product.

324.5.3.3.4 Ground beef associated with the positive pathogen test results or critical 

limit exceeded results will be ineligible for any USDA purchase program.

324.5.3.4 The ADL will record all results on spreadsheets and calculate the process 

capability (CPU, Cl) for microbial tests performed on sub-lots as outlined 

in Section 324.5.3.5.

324.5.3.5 Statistical Process Capability - The ADL will record the results on 

spreadsheets and calculate the process capability (CPU or Cl) value for all 

sub-lot microbial tests performed. The spreadsheets will be maintained so 

that process capability may be determined according to the requirements 

within APPENDIX B. The spreadsheets will be maintained so that process 

capability assessment on each twenty (20) sub-lot grouping can be 

determined as described within APPENDIX B. Test results will be 

monitored by the contractor and FSCSD to determine acceptability of the 

process according to APPENDIX B. Ineligible contractors may re-enter 

the program under conditional status provided corrective actions have 

been submitted for review and approved, implemented and a satisfactory 

onsite corrective action audit by QA Division has been conducted. Upon 

notification by the FSCS Division that the plan has adequately addressed 

the issues that resulted in the ineligible status determination, the 

contractor may re-enter the program under conditional status. 

324.5.3.6 Contractor request to remove samples from AMS testing must be 

submitted and approved by FSCS Division prior to sample removal from 

ADL testing.

330 PROCESSING
Approved by CMS

Date Issued: 04/26/04

Date Revised: 03/31/15 10

331 The contractor’s technical proposal and process shall assure compliance 

with the following requirements:

331.1 Grinding and Blending

331.1.1 Ground Beef - Boneless beef shall be ground twice, with the final grind 

passing through a 1⁄8-inch grinding plate. Blending after final grinding is 

allowed only to the extent that it doesn’t affect the appearance of the 

finished ground beef. 

331.1.2 Fat Break-Outs - The grinding, blending, and packaging process shall be 

conducted in a manner that precludes large fat “break outs” (solid chunks 

of fat greater than 1.0 cubic inch) or objectionable fat “smears” in the 

finished product. 

331.2 LFTB – When specified as an option, LFTB will not exceed 15 percent by 

weight of each batch of combined fine ground finished products (Material 

Numbers 110261, 110260, 110270).

331.3 Bone Collector/Extruder Systems – A bone collector/extruder system must 

be in operation to remove remaining bone, cartilage, and heavy 

connective tissue during the final grind. For those collector/extruder 

systems that have a secondary lean recovery system, the product from 

the secondary recovery system shall be allowed provided it does not 

exceed more than 2.0 percent of finished product weight (on a batch 

weight basis). 

331.4 Shape and Waffling of Patties - All patties must be round or oval in shape 

and waffled or scored on both sides. 

331.5 Metal Detection - All product shall be free of metal contaminates. 

Detection of stainless steel, ferrous, and non-ferrous (e.g., lead, copper, 

and aluminum) metals is required. The contractor's technical proposal 

must identify and describe the equipment, location, detection procedure, 

sensitivity levels, frequency of equipment validation, and corrective action 

procedures. 

331.6 Equipment – All equipment used to produce ground beef products for 

USDA shall be maintained and routinely checked for optimal performance. 

331.7 Irradiated Ground Beef - When specified by the purchaser, ground beef 

products to be irradiated shall comply with the additional requirements 

specified in APPENDIX C.

331.8 Beef Patties with Soy Protein Product (SPP) - The SPP will be hydrated to 

yield no less than 18% protein (as-is basis).
Approved by CMS

Date Issued: 04/26/04

Date Revised: 03/31/15 11

[(Percent Protein of SPP on “as-is” Basis / 18) – 1] = x

x = maximum pounds of water to be added to each pound of dry 

SPP.

331.8.1 Texture - The physical characteristics of SPP, in the dry form, must be 

either granular or textured.

331.8.2 Type and Combination Rate - The types of soy that may be used and 

combination rates shall be as set forth below.

Type of Soy (% Protein “As is 

Basis”)

Maximum % of Hydrated SPP in 

each batch of Combined 

Finished Product

Granular Concentrate (65%) 20.0

Flaked Textured Concentrate 

(65%) 25.0

Textured Isolate (85%) 25.0

Note: SPP (of any texture) that has been hydrated by the SPP 

manufacturer may be used provided that: The product is frozen and the 

protein content (as is basis) of the hydrated SPP is stated on the 

manufacturer's label.

331.8.3 Domestic Origin – SPP ingredients shall be derived from U.S. produced 

products.

331.9 Ground Beef Patties-90/10 (110346) - The patties shall not have any nonmeat ingredients added.

331.10 Lean Beef Patties (100163, 110270) – Non-meat components may be 

used to enhance the palatability of the patties comprising no more than 15 

percent of the raw formula. The contractor’s technical proposal must list 

all ingredients (i.e., water, processing aids, binders, seasonings, etc.) 

within their formula. Significant ingredients (more than 1 percent) shall be 

derived from U.S. produced products.

340 STATE OF REFRIGERATION

341 Bulk Packaged Ground Beef Items - Shall be frozen to 00F within 72 hours 

after completion of the final grinding of the involved lot. 

342 Patties - will be individually quick frozen (IQF) to 100F or below prior to 

packaging and then frozen to 0o

F or lower within 24 hours after completion 

of packaging and packing of the lot. Patties will not stick together after 

they are packaged and packed.
Approved by CMS

Date Issued: 04/26/04

Date Revised: 03/31/15 12

343 All USDA ground beef products will be stored, shipped, and delivered at 

temperatures that do not exceed 0oF.

350 FAT LIMITATIONS

351 The contractors will establish a target average of 15 percent fat for all 

ground beef products except for the ground beef patties-90/10 and lean 

beef patties (100163, 110270). The upper and lower specifications limits 

will be 18 and 12 percent fat respectively. The target fat content will be 

declared on the shipping container label and the nutrition facts panel. For 

ground beef patties-90/10, the upper specification limit will be 10 percent 

and the contractor will declare their target. For lean beef patties (100163, 

110270), the average fat target shall be 5 percent with upper and lower 

specification limits being 6 and 4 percent fat respectively. Separate 

Statistical Process Control (SPC) assessments will be conducted on 

ground beef products with a targeted average of 15 percent fat, the 

ground beef patties-90/10, and the lean beef patties (100163, 110270).

352 Contractor Process Assessment - The contractor shall declare the 

production lot size, laboratory, test method, and SPC methodologies in 

their technical proposal.

352.1 Sampling and testing - The contractor will randomly select four individual 

sample units (selected after initial grinding or blending) to be analyzed for 

fat content from each production lot destined for USDA. The sample unit 

size will be determined by the testing method used by the contractor’s 

laboratory.

352.2 Recording results - The contractor will record the results on spreadsheets. 

The calculated process capability (Cpk/CPU) value (as discussed in 

APPENDIX A) will be used to determine if the process is in statistical 

control. Under contractor process assessment, no production lots shall be 

allowed delivery to USDA with average test results that are outside the 

upper or lower specification limits. 

352.3 Process Capability Assessment - Twenty (20) consecutive production lot 

results (that include the last production lot) will be recorded on 

spreadsheets for capability assessment by the contractor and the AMS 

agent. The processor’s capability (Cpk/CPU) shall be one or higher. 

353 AMS Process Assessment – For the first 20 production lots, the AMS 

agent will direct the contractor to randomly select samples, each 

consisting of four sample units. For ground beef items, each initial sample 

unit shall not exceed two pounds. Initial sample units may be blended 

and/or further reduced in size. From each initial sample unit a final 

sample unit will consist of 200 – 300 grams each. Each sample unit shall 

be independent from those samples selected for contractor process 

assessment and sent to the ADL for fat analysis. The ADL will be 

responsible for supplying sampling protocol, all sample handling materials, 

and sampling methods (including sample unit size to be submitted to the 
Approved by CMS

Date Issued: 04/26/04

Date Revised: 03/31/15 13

ADL, preparation, handling of reserve samples, etc.) for sample 

preparation and submission. The ADL will record the results on 

spreadsheets and submit them to the contractor and AMS for comparison 

to the contractor’s process assessment. After 20 consecutive results, the 

contractor shall notify the FSCS Division immediately and declare what 

immediate corrective and preventative actions will be taken when:

353.1 The ADL calculated process average fat results (mean) varies more than 

one (1) percent from the contractor’s calculated process average results, 

or;

353.2 The calculated process capability (Cpk/CPU) is less than one for results 

from either the contractor’s designated laboratory or the ADL. 

353.3 The contractor must notify the FSCS Division that the process is not 

capable for fat and then sample and test an additional 20 consecutive 

results that must meet the criteria for AMS Process Assessment. Change 

in status begins after a cause and effect analysis has been performed and 

corrective actions have been implemented. If the contractor remains in 

Unreliable Status after the additional 20 consecutive lots, a cause and 

effect analysis must be performed and corrective actions submitted within 

5 business days to AMS for review and approval. If the contractor still 

remains in Unreliable Status after the second round of 20 consecutive lots 

a cause and effect analysis must be performed and corrective actions 

submitted within 5 business days to AMS for review and approval, 

implemented and a satisfactory AMS assessment audit has been 

completed. The FSCS Division reserves the right to deem a contractor as 

Unreliable for consideration on future contract awards when corrective or 

preventative actions are not adequate or effective or the contractor is 

unresponsive in declaring status or submitting corrective actions.

354 Continuous AMS Assessment – If AMS process assessment is 

satisfactory, the AMS agent will direct the contractor when to randomly 

select samples (each consisting of four sample units) from a production 

lot. No more than two production lot samples are sent to the ADL on a 

weekly basis. The ADL will continually record 20 consecutive results 

(always including the last recorded result as defined within APPENDIX D) 

on spreadsheets and submit the calculated process capability (Cpk/CPU) 

value to the contractor and AMS. The ADL’s calculated process capability 

(Cpk/CPU) value will continually be compared to the contractor’s 

calculated process capability (Cpk, CPU) value as each contractor’s test 

result is recorded to conduct the AMS Process Assessment as described 

above (using 20 consecutive results).

360 PATTY WEIGHT, THICKNESS, SHAPE, AND COLOR

361 The contractor’s technical proposal and process will assure, using SPC 

tools, that the following requirements are met:

362 Patty Weight
Approved by CMS

Date Issued: 04/26/04

Date Revised: 03/31/15 14

362.1 Material Numbers 110349, 110348, 110082, 110346 - Target weight will 

be 2.8 ounces. Acceptable weight tolerance range will be 2.7 to 2.9 

ounces.

362.2 Material Numbers 110350, 110347 - Target weight will be 2.1 ounces. 

Acceptable weight tolerance range will be 2.0 to 2.2 ounces.

362.3 Material Number 100163, 110270 - Target weight will be 3.1 ounces. 

Acceptable weight tolerance range will be 3.0 to 3.2 ounces.

363 Patty Thickness – 5/16 inch (+/- 1/16).

364 Shape - Patties shall be round or oval in shape and waffled or scored on 

both sides.

365 Color – Color of patties shall be monitored for normal appearance and 

color. When cooked to an internal temperature of 160oF by the end user, 

patties with internal or external pink appearance will not be allowed. 

370 MEAT / MEAT ALTERNATES

371 Patties must comply with the following MMA designations:

Material Number Portion Weight (oz.) MMA (oz.)

110349 2.8 2.0

110082 2.8 2.0

110348 2.8 2.0

110346 2.8 2.0

110350 2.1 1.5

110347 2.1 1.5

380 PREPARATION FOR DELIVERY

381 The contractor’s technical proposal and process will assure that all 

packaging, packing, closure, marking, and palletization comply with the 

National Motor Freight Regulations and FSIS regulations and the 

requirements listed below. The contractor also must have procedures for 

verifying the net weight of shipping containers. 

382 Packaging and Packing

382.1 All immediate containers (casings or packages) shall function as a tamper 

evidence indicator to provide added assure of product integrity through the 

method of sealing or closure. 
Approved by CMS

Date Issued: 04/26/04

Date Revised: 03/31/15 15

382.2 Fine Ground Beef (Material Number 100158, 110261) – Fine ground beef 

must be vacuum packaged or packaged in casings and sealed. All 

packages will weigh 10 pounds. The casings or packages shall be closed 

by metal clips or by a heat-sealing method. Four (4) packages will be 

placed into each shipping container.

382.3 Fine Ground Beef (Material Number 100159, 110260) – Fine ground beef 

must be vacuum packaged or packaged in casings and sealed. All 

packages will weigh 1 pound. Forty (40) packages will be placed into 

each shipping container. 

382.4 Fine Ground Beef-Irradiated (Material Number 110085) – Fine ground 

beef must be vacuum packaged in a thermo formed plastic container. 

Each package shall weigh 10 pounds. The package shall be rectangular 

in shape and shall be made from materials that have been approved by 

FDA for irradiation application. Packages shall be packed into shipping 

containers with net weights of 40 pounds. The depth, width, and length of 

the containers shall be considered depending on the type of ionizing 

radiation used.

382.5 Patties (Material Numbers 110347, 110348, 110349, 110350, 110346, 

100163, 110270, 110082) –Separation material between patties is not 

required provided the IQF patties do not stick together at the time of 

shipment. Patties must be placed into immediate containers following 

either of the following methods:

382.6.1 Flexible Containers - Either four 10-pound, five 8-pound, or eight 5-pound 

flexible (plastic) vacuum packaged or sealed containers will be placed into 

each shipping container. Hand twisting or hand tying is not acceptable.

382.6.2 Fiberboard Containers – When fiberboard is used for immediate 

containers, either four 10-pound or two 20-pound fiberboard containers 

will be placed into each shipping container. Patties may either be vacuum 

packaged or within sealed flexible containers (hand twisting or hand tying 

is not acceptable) when placed into the fiberboard immediate container or, 

placed into the fiberboard immediate container that is lined with a plastic 

bag to completely cover the product. For this option, fiberboard immediate 

containers will then have to be sealed with tape or glue.

382.7 Ground Beef Patties-Irradiated (Material Number 110082) – Patties must 

be packaged into sealed flexible (plastic) immediate containers. They may

weigh either 20 pounds or 10 pounds. Packaging materials shall be 

approved by FDA for irradiation application. Separation material between 

patties is not required provided the IQF patties do not stick together at the 

time of shipment. Packages will be packed into shipping containers with 

net weights of 40 pounds. Consideration of the depth, width, and length of 

the containers shall be considered depending on the type of ionizing 

radiation is used. 
Approved by CMS

Date Issued: 04/26/04

Date Revised: 03/31/15 16

382.8 Style and Size of Shipping Containers - Only one style and size of 

immediate and shipping container may be used in any one delivery unit.

383 Shipping Container Net Weight

383.1 Using SPC tools, the contractor shall assure the following net weights:

383.1.1 Ground Beef (fine ground bulk and patties) - will be packed to a net weight 

of 40 pounds.

384 Closure

384.1 Shipping containers will be closed by strapping, taping or gluing. When 

strapping is used, the initial closure (usually the bottom of container) shall 

be secured by the gluing or taping method. 

385 Marking of Containers*

385.1 Both immediate and shipping containers will have a printed code that 

includes the establishment number and is traceable to the production lot 

and date. All container markings shall include all information required by 

FSIS along with the additional information listed below: 

385.2 Ground Beef, 1-pound package labels (100159, 110260) will have the 

following information included on commercially labeled packages: 

385.2.1 Safe handling instructions.

385.2.2 Nutrition Facts panel (to include fat declaration of 15 grams of fat per 100 

gram serving). 

385.2.3 The “best if used by” date (180 calendar days from the date of production).

385.2.4 The FSIS establishment number. 

385.2.5 A code number that will indicate traceability to production lot and date. 

385.3 Shipping Containers - Commercially marked shipping containers will 

include the information as follows:

385.3.1 USDA Shield (at least 2 inches high and appearing on the top of the 

container or on the principal display panel). 

*All labeling shall be illustrated in the Contractor’s technical proposal.
Approved by CMS

Date Issued: 04/26/04

Date Revised: 03/31/15 17

385.3.2 Applicable Purchase Order Number.

385.3.3 The product name shall include no additional disclaimers and qualifiers to 

the name and material numbers listed below.

Product Name That Shall Appear on the 

Label Material Number

Ground Beef 1/ 100158

Ground Beef (LFTB Opt)1/ 110261

Ground Beef, 1 pound packages 100159

Ground Beef, 1 pound packages (LFTB Opt) 110260

Ground Beef – Irradiated1/ 110085

Ground Beef Patties-85/151/ 110350

Ground Beef Patties-85/151/ 110349

Beef Patties with SPP-85/151/,2/ 110348

Beef Patties with SPP-85/151/,2/ 110347

Ground Beef Patties-Irradiated-85/151/ 110082

Ground Beef Patties-90/101/ 110346

Lean Beef Patties1/ 100163

Lean Beef Patties (LFTB Opt)1/ 110270

1/Shall include the statement “For Institutional Use Only” on the principal display 

panel.

2/The ingredient statement must include the identification of the added hydrated SPP. 

385.3.4 Fat Declaration.

385.3.5 Shipping containers containing irradiated ground beef shall bear the 

required FSIS markings for irradiated products and a “best if used by date” 

(180 calendar days from date of production). 

385.3.6 Nutrition Facts panel to include fat declaration of:

385.3.6.1 15 grams of fat per 100 grams serving size for bulk items (100158, 

110261, 100159, 110260, 110085),

385.3.6.2 12 grams of fat per 80 grams serving size for patty items -15% fat 

(110349, 110350, 110348, 110347, 110082),

385.3.6.3 8 grams of fat per 80 grams serving size for patty item - NTE 10% fat 

(110346), and

385.3.6.4 4.5 grams of fat per 88 grams serving size for patty items – 5% fat 

(100163, 110270).

385.3.7 Ingredient declaration (including single ingredient products).
Approved by CMS

Date Issued: 04/26/04

Date Revised: 03/31/15 18

385.3.8 An allergen statement in a format which complies with the Food Allergen 

Labeling and Consumer Protection Act (FALCPA) for any product which 

contains milk, eggs, fish, crustacean shellfish, tree nuts, peanuts, soy or 

wheat; e.g. Allergen: This product contains ______.

386 Palletized Unit Loads

386.1 All products shall be stacked on new or well-maintained pallets and 

palletized with shrink wrap plastic. 

387 Total Net Weights Per Delivery Unit

387.1 The delivery units for each of the respective material numbers are as 

follows:

Material Number Pounds Per 

Delivery Unit

100158, 100159, 110085, 110261, 110260 40,000

110349, 110350, 110348, 110347, 110346, 

110082, 100163, 110270 38,000

Note: No tolerances will be allowed.

388 Sealing

388.1 All products must be delivered to AMS assigned destinations under seal 

with tamper proof, tamper resistant, serially numbered, high security seals 

that meet the American Society for Testing and Materials Standard

(ASTM) F1157-04 and/or the International Organization for Standards 

(ISO) 17712-2010 as required under the Master Solicitation. Seals shall 

be 1⁄8th-inch diameter cable, high-security bolt, or equivalent.

390 USDA QUALITY ASSURANCE

391 Warranty and Complaint Resolution

391.1 Warranty - The contractor will guarantee that the product complies with all 

specification requirements, technical proposal declarations, and provisions 

set forth in the Master Solicitation. 

391.2 Complaint Resolution - Customer complaint resolution procedures will be 

included in the technical proposal. These procedures will include: a point 

of contact, investigation steps, intent to cooperate with AMS, and product 

replacement or monetary compensation. The procedures will be used to 

resolve product complaints from recipient agencies or AMS.

392 AMS Monitoring and Production Assessment
Approved by CMS

Date Issued: 04/26/04

Date Revised: 03/31/15 19

392.1 A QA Division agent must be present during the production of the finished 

product for all USDA ground beef contracts. The QA Division agent will 

monitor and verify the processing steps, quality assurance activities, and 

any corrective actions to assure that all requirements outlined in the 

approved technical proposal are complied with. The QA Division agent 

will be conducting the monitoring and production verification in accordance 

with applicable QA Division procedures. Any deviations to contractual 

requirements will be reported to the contractor and FSCS Division. The 

FSCS Division will make all determinations as to the acceptability of the 

product relative to findings documented by the QA Division agent.

393 Control of Non-Conforming Product

393.1 The contractor must include a plan to assure that non-conforming product 

(i.e., boneless beef, LFTB, ground beef) is not delivered under USDA 

contracts. The plan must address 1) control and segregation of nonconforming product, 2) removal of any USDA markings, and 3) disposition 

of non-conforming product, including vendor notification in writing to the 

FSCS Division of final disposition (e.g., diverted to cooked product or 

destroyed).

394 Contractor Checkloading

394.1 Contractor will perform checkloading examinations at the time of shipment 

and issue contractor’s certificate to accompany each shipment that 

includes all of the following information:

394.1.1 Purchase Order Number/Purchase Order Line Item Number;

394.1.2 Sales Order Number/Sales Order Line Item Number;

394.1.3 Destination of shipment;

394.1.4 Name of Product and applicable Material Number;

394.1.5 Shipping Date;

394.1.6 Production lot number(s) and date each lot was produced along with 

shipping container and immediate container code(s) and the code used 

that provides traceability to establishment number, production lot and 

date;

394.1.7 Count of shipping containers and total projected net weight in each 

production lot;

394.1.8 Identity of car or truck (car numbers and letters, seals, truck license, etc.) 

as applicable;
Approved by CMS

Date Issued: 04/26/04

Date Revised: 03/31/15 20

394.1.9 Contractor certification that product conforms with the applicable 

specification (FPPS-GB-2015);

394.1.10 Count and projected net weight verified and;

394.1.11 Signature of company official responsible for checkloading.
Approved by CMS

Date Issued: 04/26/04

Date Revised: 03/31/15 21

APPENDIX A

DATA ENTRY AND PROCESS CAPABILITY VALUES

Data Entry

The ADL will record microbiological and fat test results on spreadsheets and to have 

those spreadsheets readily available to AMS and its contractors/suppliers. Quantitative 

(plate count) results will be expressed as colony forming units (CFU) per gram or per ml 

reflecting the original sample measurement. Test results will be entered as a whole 

number (i.e., no decimal places, no preceding < (less than) symbol). Qualitative results 

for E. coli O157:H7, each of the non-O157 STEC serotypes, and Salmonella will be 

recorded as a 1 for a positive results and as a 0 for negative results. 

The ADL will provide the calculated process capability values (CPU, Cpk and Cl) in the 

spreadsheets so that the supplier’s process capability assessment can be determined, 

as described in APPENDIX B. 

Process Capability Values – CPU or Cpk 

The process capability value (CPU or Cpk) 

is calculated by the ADL. CPU will be used 

for microbiological tests and for Beef 

Patties – 90/10 fat tests since these 

requirements only have an upper 

specification limit. Cpk will be used for fat 

testing requirements that have an upper 

and lower specification limit (see section 

3.5). The upper specification limits (USL) 

for microbiological requirements will be 

found in APPENDIX B. The calculations 

for CPU and Cpk are as 

follows:Calculation of process capability 

(CPU) with an upper specification limit 

only

Step 1. The first calculation will determine 

the Z-value (upper):

Z-value (upper) = (USL – Process 

Average) / Standard Deviation

Step 2. The Z-value divided by 3 will 

calculate the CPU:

CPU = Z-value (upper) / 3

Calculation of process capability (Cpk) 

with an upper and lower specification 

limit

Step 1. The first set of calculations will 

determine the smaller value of the two Zvalues (upper or lower):

Z-value (upper) = (USL – Process 

Average) / Standard Deviation

Z-value (lower) = (Process Average –

LSL) / Standard Deviation

Step 2. The smaller of the two Z-values 

(upper or lower) divided by 3 will calculate 

the Cpk.

CPU = Z-value (smaller value of the 

upper or lower) / 3

Process Capability Value – Cl

The central line (Cl; x-bar) is the process average or arithmetic mean that indicates the 

incidence of positive E. coli O157:H7 and Salmonella results. Results from non-O157 

STECs are not used to calculate process capability.
Approved by CMS

Date Issued: 04/26/04

Date Revised: 03/31/15 22

APPENDIX B

AMS BONELESS & GROUND BEEF PROCESS REQUIREMENTS FLOW CHART

Quality Control Program – Prior to bidding on 

ground beef contracts with the USDA, the 

documented quality control program as 

described within the approved technical 

proposal (raw material suppliers and grinders) 

must have received a satisfactory onsite 

capability assessment by QA Division. AMS 

will audit and monitor the program. The quality 

control program must specifically address 

management of microbial data to comply with 

the AMS Process Requirements Flow Chart 

and the following descriptions.

Process Assessment Status - A process 

assessment involves sampling and testing of 

20 consecutive lots or sub-lots (which will 

include the last recorded result as defined 

within APPENDIX D) of boneless beef (see 

Section 323.8.4) or ground beef (see Section

324.5.3.5) destined for USDA contracts for the 

microbes listed within the table below. 

Process Capable? – Flow chart decision step 

that involves test results for up to 20 

consecutive SPC only lots or sub-lots (which 

will include the last recorded result) recorded in 

spreadsheets, where the process capability 

(CPU or Cl) value is calculated (See 

APPENDIX A) for evaluation. A process that is 

not capable shall be declared to the FSCS

Division immediately when results are known 

and will result in switching from process 

assessment status to conditional status or 

switching from conditional status to ineligible 

status when:

 The CPU values do not meet the levels 

specified in the table below;

 The Cl values do not meet the levels 

specified in the table below for Salmonella or E. coli O157:H7;

 Two results exceed any of the critical limits in the table below; * or

 After 2 or more results, the CPU value is negative.*

*Immediate action will be taken prior to completion of 20 lots or sub-lots.

Quality Control Program 

Approved by AMS

Process Assessment 

Status

Process 

Capable?

Conditional Status

Not to exceed 60 calendar days

Process 

Capable?

Ineligible Status

Satisfactory 

AMS 

Assessment 

Audit?

Yes

No

No

Yes

Yes

AMS PROCESS 

REQUIREMENTS FLOW CHART

No
Approved by CMS

Date Issued: 04/26/04

Date Revised: 03/31/15 23

Conditional Status –To regain process capable status, the boneless beef supplier or 

contractor must notify the FSCS Division that the process is not capable, and then have 

20 consecutive results that meet the ‘Process Capable’ criteria within 60 calendar days 

or in accordance with a production schedule pre-approved by the FSCS Division. 

Change in status begins after a cause and effect analysis has been performed and 

corrective actions have been implemented. The boneless beef supplier or contractor 

may also declare itself ineligible at any time.

Ineligible Supplier/Contractor – An ineligible Boneless Beef Supplier or Ground Beef 

Contractor will not be allowed to supply boneless or ground beef products under USDA 

contracts until a cause and effect analysis has been performed and corrective actions 

have been submitted to AMS for review and approved, implemented and a satisfactory 

AMS assessment audit has been completed. Once satisfactorily becoming eligible, 

subsequent production will be under Conditional Status. The FSCS Division reserves 

the right to declare a boneless beef supplier or ground beef contractor ineligible at any 

time.

AMS MICROBIAL REQUIREMENTS FOR BONELESS & GROUND BEEF

Microbial Test USL (cfu) Critical Limits (cfu) CPU or Cl Value

Standard Plate Count 50,000 / gram 100,000 / gram CPU > 1

Total Coliforms 100 / gram 1,000 / gram CPU > 1

E. coli 100 / gram 500 / gram CPU > 1

Salmonella Positive (+) result / 25 

grams

Cl < 0.05

E. coli O157:H7 Positive (+) result / 325 

grams

Cl < 0.05
Approved by CMS

Date Issued: 04/26/04

Date Revised: 03/31/15 24

APPENDIX C

REQUIREMENTS FOR GROUND BEEF-IRRADIATED PRODUCTS

Ground Beef-Irradiated products shall be subjected to ionizing radiation from gamma 

ray, electron beam, or x-ray sources. The following requirements are in addition to all 

requirements specified within this FPPS. 

Handling 

Products shall be packaged and placed into shipping containers and frozen to 0°F 

within 72 hours from time of completion of the production lot prior to irradiation. 

Products must be maintained in a frozen state from the time of leaving the shipping 

freezer and throughout the irradiation process. After irradiation, the products must be 

palletized, reloaded, and dispatched to the final destination. 

Dosimetry 

Ground beef shall be subjected to ionizing radiation to receive a dosage that is no less 

than 1.35 kilograys (kGy) and no more than 3.00 kGy. Irradiation facilities shall: 

• Submit the initial dosimeter data verifying minimum and maximum dosages 

received within the technical proposal, and 

• Maintain and provide confirmation dosimeter data to AMS upon request for each 

unit of ground beef irradiated.

Microbial Testing

Irradiated Ground Beef Products (patties and bulk) - shall be tested for Standard Plate 

Count, Total Coliforms, and E. coli after final grinding and before freezing and tested for 

E. coli O157:H7, non-O157 STECs, and Salmonella after completion of the irradiation 

process.
Approved by CMS

Date Issued: 04/26/04

Date Revised: 03/31/15 25

Figure 2

AMS Microbial and fat Results 12-7/20

Total Coliform Count

COMPANY = Noname's Packing

Individ.: cl: 47.7419 ucl: 179.465 lcl: -83.9811 * Rule violation

Subgrp Size 1

O

O O

O

O

O

O O O O O O

O

O

O

O O O

O

O

O

O

O

O

O

O

O

O

Individ.

cl

lcl

ucl

-100

-50

0

50

100

150

200

5 10 15 20 25 30 35 40

APPENDIX D

GLOSSARY OF TERMS

Cause and Effect Diagrams – A cause and 

effect analysis is used to identify the cause or 

source of non-conformities. It categorizes the 

source as derived from impact on a process 

presented by Human, Machinery, Material, 

Methods, Environment, and Measurement (Test). 

The Cause and Effect Diagram will assist in 

evaluating a process and assigning the 

appropriate control point (see Figure 1).

"Cleanup to cleanup" - Part of a HACCP 

program that the establishment has in place to 

support statistically distinguishing one portion of 

production from another. Production destined for USDA contracts is to be commenced 

on clean equipment. "Cleanup to cleanup" may be an effective means of preventing 

cross contamination of one part of production to another with E. coli O157:H7. 

However, "cleanup to cleanup" without other supporting documentation may not be 

adequate to statistically distinguish one portion of production from another. If a sample 

analysis yields a positive result, any product produced in the same time frame with the 

same process or equipment is suspect, unless an intervention occurred that would 

indicate a change in the status of the process/equipment.

Control Charts – A control chart is a 

run chart with statistically derived 

upper and lower control limits (ucl 

and lcl). The control chart 

demonstrates if a process is in 

statistical control. When properly 

designed, control charts provide an 

early warning of problems allowing 

for adjustments to be made before 

production of non-conforming 

products. Microbial test results may 

be plotted on control charts for 

individual measurements and fat test 

results may be plotted on control charts featuring average and range of the fat test 

results (See Figure 2). 

Effect

Cause Cause

Cause Cause

Cause

Cause

Cause

Cause

Cause

Cause

Cause

Cause

Cause

Cause

Cause

Cause

Cause

Cause

Cause

Figure 1
Approved by CMS

Date Issued: 04/26/04

Date Revised: 03/31/15 26

AMS Fat Data

Average Fat

Company = B

Samples: 20 Mean: 15.3664 Std Dev: .8421Cpk: 1.042 Spec Lim: ( 12, 18) Est % out: ( .0032012, .088179) Act % out: ( .0000, .0000)

Mean

-3sp +3sp

LSL USL

Target

0

2

4

6

8

10

12 13 14 15 16 17 18

Cpk – Process Capability Value (Cpk) is a capability analysis index used to determine if 

a process can meet specification limits. A Cpk value of 1 indicates that the process is 

producing at least 99.73% within the specification limit. Cpk values of 1 for many 

organizations have become the minimum requirement. However, the larger the Cpk 

values the better. Cpk differs from other process capability analyses since it considers 

the process average along with the distribution of test results. Since there is no lower 

specification limit for USDA microbial requirements, the calculation for Cpk will not 

involve relating the process average with a lower 

specification limit. 

CPU - Process Capability Value (CPU) is the 

same as Cpk except that there is no lower 

specification limit. The process performance 

index is correctly known as a Centered Process 

Capability Upper Specification Limit only (CPU) 

(See Figure 3).

Excellent Condition - All product must be in 

excellent condition (e.g., exposed lean and fat 

surfaces shall be of a color and bloom normally 

associated with the class, grade, and cut of meat 

and typical of meat which has been properly 

stored and handled). Cut surfaces and naturally exposed lean surfaces shall show no 

more than slight darkening or discoloration due to dehydration, aging, and/or microbial 

activity. The fat shall show no more than very slight discoloration due to oxidation or 

microbial activity. No odors foreign to fresh meat shall be present. Changes in color 

and odors characteristically associated with vacuum 

packaged meat in excellent condition shall be acceptable. 

Also, product shall show no evidence of mishandling. Beef 

must be maintained in excellent condition through 

processing, storage, and transit. 

Flow Charts – Flow charts depict all of the steps of a 

process. Standard symbols are used to identify the start, 

finish, processing steps and decision steps. It can be used 

to simplify a complex process so that it can be analyzed 

(Figure 4). 

Histograms – The histogram shows a pictorial 

representation of the frequency of distribution of microbial 

test results over time. Sometimes referred to as process 

capability charts, histograms compare the distribution of 

the test results with AMS specification requirements. Use 

histograms along with control charts to better understand 

process capability (See Figure 3). 

Start

Process Step

Decision

Finish

No

Yes

Figure 4

Figure 3
Approved by CMS

Date Issued: 04/26/04

Date Revised: 03/31/15 27

Figure 5

Pareto Diagrams – The Pareto diagram ranks the importance of different nonconformities. Typically, non-conformities are measured against frequency of 

occurrence. The Pareto analysis is helpful 

in identifying and justifying which problems 

will need to be solved first (see Figure 5).

Process – For the purpose of this 

specification, a single process involves the 

input of a raw material on a production line 

with a value added activity resulting in a 

output that can is be further processed or 

meet a customer’s need. A complex 

process involves output being another 

processes input. The production of ground beef is a complex process.

Process Capability Assessment on 20 consecutive lots – For the purpose of this 

specification, process capability assessments are conducted on data results from each 

lot for fat and microbial requirements. A process assessment involves sampling and 

testing of 20 consecutive lots (which always includes the last recorded result). 

Information from each lot will be evaluated with information from the preceding 19 lots 

(i.e., while in process assessment of the first 20 lots, the process was found to be 

capable, then assessment will continue on lot numbers 2-21). This has often been 

referred to as a ‘Rolling 20’. This assessment takes into account process variations that 

may be attributed to product, management, sources, and time (see Figure 6). 

Random Sampling – A process of selecting a sample from a lot whereby each unit in 

the lot has an equal chance of being selected and is representative of the lot’s 

production.

Statistical Process Control (SPC) – SPC is the primary analysis tool of quality 

improvement. The objective of any quality improvement strategy is to identify and 

reduce the amount of variation. SPC analyzes the variation in a process and is the 

applied science that assists suppliers to collect, organize and interpret microbial and fat 

test results on processing of ground beef destined for USDA. 

Figure 6

Boneless defects

Frequency (%) - Samples 1 to 9

CONN TIS

LYMPH

BONE

FATINT

BLOOD CL

Category

35

21

20

10

4

Count

0 5 10 15 20 25 30 35 40
Approved by CMS

Date Issued: 04/26/04

Date Revised: 03/31/15 28

SPC provides tools to help measure, identify, and eliminate variation from customer 

requirements (see Table 1). 

Tools for Statistical Process Control

Flow Charts Scatter Diagrams

Pareto Diagrams Run Charts

Cause and Effect Diagrams Control Charts

Histograms Capability Assessment

Upper and lower control limits (UCL and LCL) – Control limits are statistical 

calculations of the distribution of test results. Upper and lower control limits represent 

+/- 3 standard deviations of the process results. Data plotted outside the limits 

represent special causes of variation. A process may be considered “out of statistical 

control” when results are outside these limits. Upper and lower control limits are not to 

be confused with specification limits. A supplier wishing to be an eligible participant in 

the Ground Beef Program shall have a process that is capable of producing within the 

specification limits (See figure 2). 

Upper and lower specification limits (USL and LSL) – Normally, the customer sets 

the specification limits. The objective of the Ground Beef Purchase Program is to 

procure from ground beef processors that are statistically capable of meeting the upper 

specification limits specified within the FPPS-GB. The specification limits reflect 

customer needs (See Figure 3). 

Table 1
Approved by CMS

Date Issued: 06/10/12

Date Revised: 03/30/15

SUPPLEMENT 211 TO AMS MASTER SOLICITATION EXHIBIT B

Cover Page:

Company Name

Company Address

Contact Person, including title, phone number, including emergency contact information, email address (must be authorized to represent the company).

Technical Proposal for: [Supplement Number] and [FPPS]

Table of Contents (all pages and attachments must be number and identified – any 

attachments must be identified and referenced in the Technical Proposal).

The technical proposal should document a quality control program that includes procedures, 

records, forms, pictures, etc., which demonstrates conformance with the following checklist of 

requirements:

100 SCOPE

200 APPLICABLE DOCUMENTS

300 CHECKLIST OF REQUIREMENTS

310 ITEMS

320 MATERIAL

322 Domestic Origin Of Meat Component 

322.2.2 Humane Handling

322.2 Spinal Cord Removal

322.2.5 Pathogen Intervention Steps

322.2.6 Carcass Testing 

323 Boneless Beef

323.2 Traceability

323.4.1 Mechanically Separated

323.52 Handling

330 PROCESSING
Approved by CMS

Date Issued: 06/10/12

Date Revised: 03/30/15

360 PREPARATION FOR DELIVERY

362 Packaging and Packing

364 Closure

365 Labeling

366 Palletized Unit Loads

367 Delivery Unit

368 Sealing

370 PRODUCT ASSURANCE

371 Warranty and Complaint Resolution

371.1 Warranty

371.2 Complaint Resolution

373 Non-Conforming Product

374 Contractor Checkloading

Attachments or Appendixes - Please attach all referenced documents with the applicable 

document name and reference number.
APPROVED

FEDERAL PURCHASE 

PROGRAM SPECIFICATION 

(FPPS) FOR ANIMAL 

HANDLING AND WELFARE

Agricultural Marketing Service (AMS)

Livestock, Poultry and Seed (LPS) Program 

Food Safety and Commodity Specification (FSCS) Division

Room 2628 S-Bldg, Phone: (202) 692-0342

Supersedes: FPPS-AHW-2014 June 2014 – Changes 

from previous requirements in blue

Effective: January 2015

Approved by CMS 

Date Issued: 08/11/08

Date Revised: 01/13/15

100 GENERAL

101 This document is for use by the Department of Agriculture (USDA), AMS, LPS

Program to ensure that the animal handling and welfare requirements for 

Federal nutrition assistance programs reflect industry best practices.

110 PROGRAM APPROACH

111 All animal harvest facilities that supply raw materials from bovine, porcine and 

ovine species for the production of AMS destined finished products must 

develop and implement a written program that is consistent with a systematic 

approach to humane animal handling and welfare as outlined in 69 FR 54625. 

The program will ensure proper animal handling and welfare techniques are 

conducted from the time the transportation conveyance enters the facility’s 

premises through the stunning and exsanguination of the animal. 

120 PROGRAM SUBMISSION

121 The program will be submitted as a supporting document to the organization’s 

approved technical proposal and must address the requirements outlined in 

Section 200 – PROGRAM COMPONENTS. 

200 PROGRAM COMPONENTS

201 The contractor must ensure that any facility that harvests animals has a:

210 MANAGEMENT COMMITMENT

211 Steering Committee (internal) which is ultimately accountable for animal 

handling and welfare initiatives within the organization.

212 Mission Statement on animal handling and welfare that is distributed to all 

employees and conspicuously displayed at the premises.

SUPPLEMENT 211 TO AMS MASTER SOLICITATION EXHIBIT C
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Date Issued: 08/11/08

Date Revised: 01/13/15 2

220 TRAINING PROGRAM 

221 Training program on Animal Handling and Welfare that:

221.1 is provided to all employees interacting with animals;

221.2 covers the AMI Recommended Animal Handling Guidelines and Audit Guide 

2013 Edition;

221.3 is facilitated by an employee that has earned and maintained a certification of 

animal handling and welfare training, such as that offered through the 

Professional Animal Auditor Certification Organization (PAACO) or an 

equivalent.

221.4 is conducted no less frequently than once a year for each designated 

employee; and,

221.5 requires signed documentation from each employee and confirmation by 

signature of the designated, certified trainer upon successful completion of 

training.

230 QUALITY MANAGEMENT PLAN

231 Written quality management plan (internal) which addresses all provisions of 

Chapter 3: Transportation Audit Guidelines, 7 Core Criteria and Chapter 4: 

Auditing Animal Handling and Stunning, 7 Core Criteria, of the AMI 

Recommended Animal Handling Guidelines and Audit Guide 2013 Edition, 

found at the following web site address: 

231.1 http://animalhandling.org/ht/d/sp/i/26752/pid/26752

232 This internal quality management plan must also provide for routine 

assessment and monitoring of humane handling through the use of a 

numerical scoring system conducted by a trained employee.

233 All animal harvest facilities that supply raw materials from bovine, porcine and 

ovine species for the production of AMS destined finished products must have 

a fully functioning back-up stunning device onsite wherever animal stunning is 

performed.

240 NON-AMBULATORY AND U.S. SUSPECTS

241 CATTLE

242 Written protocol in-place and enforced that precludes the receipt of or having 

non-ambulatory, disabled cattle on the harvest facility premise. In the event 

that animals become non-ambulatory or disabled at any time while present at 

the harvest facility, the animal will be humanely euthanized and the carcass 
Approved by CMS

Date Issued: 08/11/08

Date Revised: 01/13/15 3

removed from the premise in a timely manner through contracted services or 

other means.

243 HOGS AND SHEEP

244 Written protocol in-place and enforced that ensures all animals designated by 

Food Safety Inspection Service (FSIS) as U.S. Suspects (9 CFR 301.2) that 

are slaughtered are appropriately segregated during the harvest and 

production processes and precluded from inclusion in any products purchased 

by AMS.

300 PROGRAM EVALUATION AND ELIGIBILITY

301 The program will be audited (external) by AMS or a firm accredited by AMS. 

The accreditation of the firm will be conducted by the Quality Assessment

Division (QAD) through the USDA ISO Guide 65 Program. Alternatively, at 

the option of the organization, the audits can be performed by QAD auditors. 

302 Audit findings thought to be in conflict with Food Safety and Inspection Service 

(FSIS) regulations will be communicated to the establishment’s FSIS Inspector 

in Charge (IIC) or designee. 

310 AUDIT FORMAT

311 AMS or the AMS accredited auditing firm will conduct audits utilizing the 

following format:

312 TRANSPORTATION SEGMENT (CHAPTER 3: AMI RECOMMENDED 

ANIMAL HANDLING GUIDELINES AND AUDIT GUIDE 2013 EDITION)

312.1 Audited organizations must pass Core Criteria 1 and 6 with a minimum scoring 

of excellent, Core Criteria 2 through 5 with a minimum scoring of acceptable 

and Core Criteria 7 must be adhered to with full compliance (zero tolerance) 

each time an audit is performed.

313 ANIMAL HANDLING AND STUNNING SEGMENT (CHAPTER 4: AMI 

RECOMMENDED ANIMAL HANDLING GUIDELINES AND AUDIT GUIDE 

2013 EDITION)

313.1 Audited organizations must adhere to Core Criteria 1, 2, 6 and 7 with full 

compliance (zero tolerance) and to Core Criteria 3, 4 and 5 with a minimum 

scoring of Acceptable each time an audit is performed.1/

313.2 The auditor shall inform FSIS and organization officials in writing of all audit 

findings, including any observations of missed stuns and/or animals regaining 

sensibility following stunning, upon completion of the audit during the exit 

interview.

1/Religious harvest (Kosher and Halal) shall be exempt from the AMS auditing of Core Criteria 1: Effective Stunning.
Approved by CMS

Date Issued: 08/11/08

Date Revised: 01/13/15 4

320 INITIAL AUDIT

321 Initial audit must be performed prior to award of contracts.

330 AUDIT FAILURE

331 If an audit is failed for any of the Core Criteria, the organization is not eligible to 

provide product until such a time that corrective and preventative actions are 

approved by the Food Safety and Commodity Specification (FSCS) Division,

implemented and proven effective.

340 AUDIT FREQUENCY AND STATUS

341 STANDARD - Until four (4) consecutive successfully passed audits are 

attained, an audit must be conducted within 3 months of the previous audit.

342 MONTHLY - If at any time an audit identifies any of the Core Criteria not 

meeting the pass requirements while in the STANDARD phase, auditing will be 

required to be conducted on a monthly basis once corrective and preventative 

actions have been approved by the FSCS Division, implemented and proven 

effective. This schedule will be for a period of time until four (4) successive 

audits are found to meet the passing requirements noted in SECTION 310 –

AUDIT FORMAT; at which time audits shall be conducted on the STANDARD 

basis.

343 If four successfully conducted audits are sequentially completed within a one 

year period while in STANDARD auditing phase, the facility may move to a 

SEMI-ANNUAL audit basis.

344 SEMI-ANNUAL - Semi-annual audits may continue until such time that a failed 

audit is reported or a period of greater than six months has elapsed without any 

audits being performed; at which time the audits must resume as described for 

STANDARD audits.

345 FOR-CAUSE – Any official enforcement actions issued by FSIS for missed 

stuns or for an animal regaining sensibility following stunning shall result in an 

immediate for-cause animal handling and welfare audit by AMS. Subsequent 

audit frequency will be determined by results of the AMS audit, as described 

above.

400 FSCS Division

401 The FSCS Division can declare an organization’s Animal Handing and Welfare 

Program out of compliance at any time.

402 The organization shall immediately notify the FSCS Division when any animal 

handling and welfare official enforcement action is issued by FSIS.
Approved by CMS

Date Issued: 06/10/12

Date Revised: 03/30/15

SUPPLEMENT 211 TO AMS MASTER SOLICITATION EXHIBIT D

UNITED STATES DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE 

AGRICULTURAL MARKETING SERVICE 

LIVESTOCK, POULTRY AND SEED PROGRAM

CERTIFICATE OF CONFORMANCE FOR

THE PROCUREMENT OF FROZEN GROUND

PRODUCTS

CERTIFICATE OF CONFORMANCE

I certify the following:

(1) On [delivery date(s) ], [Contractor’s name] furnished the (insert the appropriate 

commodity description) called for by Purchase Order Number via [Carrier] under 

Sales Order Number/Item number(s): .

(2) The (insert the appropriate material name) is of the quality specified and conforms in all 

respects with the purchase order requirements, including [Contractor’s name] Technical 

Proposal as approved by the AMS, LPS Program, FSCS Division.

(3) Product identification, (i.e. production lot number(s)) is in the quantity shown on the 

attached acceptance document.

(4) Contractor assures all meat or meat products used in fulfilling this contract was produced 

in the United States as defined in the AMS Master Solicitation Section I.E.

Date:

Signature:

(Signed by an officer or representative authorized to sign offers )

Title: