i FOOD SAFETY AND INSPECTION SERVICE 2020 ANNUAL SAMPLING PROGRAM PLAN

Food Safety and Inspection Service 

ANNUAL SAMPLING 

Program Plan FISCAL YEAR 2020 

Protecting Public Health and Preventing 

Foodborne Illness 
ii FOOD SAFETY AND INSPECTION SERVICE 2020 ANNUAL SAMPLING PROGRAM PLAN

Introduction 

The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) inspects meat, poultry, 

and processed egg products to ensure that food is safe, wholesome, and properly labeled. Verification activities 

serve to protect the public from foodborne illness or injury. Sampling of product for microbiological contaminants or 

chemical residues is a key FSIS activity to ensure public health and safety. 

This report identifies changes to FSIS’ sampling programs planned for fiscal year (FY) 2020 and describes the 

Agency’s overall strategy for directing its sampling resources. 

Background 

FSIS Agency Planning

The FSIS Strategic Plan for FY 2017-2021 includes an objective to strengthen FSIS sampling programs. The 

activities in the FY 2020 Annual Sampling plan directly align with the FSIS FY 2020 Annual Plan.

In FY 2018 FSIS initiated an evaluation on data collected through questionnaires in the Public Health Information 

System (PHIS) for the sampling, inspection, and enforcement forms to improve FSIS questionnaire consistency, 

data quality, standardization, and targeting, and to more efficiently use FSIS field inspector time and resources 

during sampling collection. Additionally, FSIS initiated an internal evaluation to assess historic domestic and import 

sampling to support planning, analysis, and future decision-making related to sampling, including setting sampling 

resource efficiency criteria. In FY 2019, FSIS began updating internal procedures and generating tools to facilitate 

the development and review of sampling programs. In FY 2020, FSIS will continue to implement recommendations 

derived from FY 2018 evaluations.

FSIS Process for Scheduling, Collecting, and Analyzing Samples

The Agency’s process of scheduling, collecting, and analyzing routine domestic samples typically begins with a 

sampling task assigned to FSIS inspection program personnel (IPP) through PHIS. The number of sampling tasks a 

domestic establishment receives can vary greatly depending on the types and quantities of products produced. The 

Agency is investigating ways to reduce the sampling burden on small and very small establishments, with the intent 

to implement changes in the FY 2021 Annual Sampling Plan. The tables in Appendix D: Sample Distribution 

by Product Volume Category identify the various task frequencies and monthly maximum sample tasks, as 

well as illustrate through examples how sampling task assignment varies by product and production volume. 

Additional non-routine sampling tasks might be distributed to establishment in response to routine results or other 

establishment performance history. Sampling type of inspection (TOI) tasks are assigned for each foreign country 

and product combination based on the number of imported shipments received. 

It is important to note there might be a difference between the number of samples that are anticipated to be 

analyzed and the total number of samples actually analyzed within the fiscal year. One of the challenges IPP face 

when trying to collect all the samples accounted for in the sampling plan is the availability of eligible products; 

therefore, the annual sampling plan is based on the number of samples anticipated to be analyzed instead of those 

scheduled. FSIS can adjust the number of samples scheduled monthly to better target the number of samples 

collected and analyzed. FSIS targets are based on the number of annual samples collected rather than specific 

collection rates because not all establishments under FSIS sampling projects produce every eligible product every 

day. In order to collect samples from infrequent producers and optimize the total number of annual planned samples 

collected and analyzed, FSIS adjusts the number of samples scheduled based on the average number of samples 

collected throughout the sampling year. The estimates for each sampling program are based on current plans, FSIS 

policies, and industry practices and are therefore subject to change over the course of the fiscal year. 

After receiving the sampling tasks, and verifying eligible product availability, IPP collect and ship the samples to 

one of three FSIS testing laboratories, where the sample is tested for specified analytes. An analyte is a substance 

whose constituents are identified and measured, and the FSIS laboratories perform different tests depending on the 

sampling program and target analytes. The Agency looks to increase sample resource efficiency by increasing the 

number of analytes evaluated per sample collection and test. 

i FOOD SAFETY AND INSPECTION SERVICE 2020 ANNUAL SAMPLING PROGRAM PLAN 
II I II ll 

--,-~---------~I

-------------~

Microbiological and Chemical Residue Sampling Planned Changes from FY 2018 – FY 2020 

Tables 1 and 2 summarize, for microbiological and chemical residue programs, respectively, the total planned number of anplanned number of analytes tested for during FY 2018, FY 2019, and FY 2020 by product class. Data are based on the proand which analyses were performed during the previous fiscal years. 

Table 1: Total Planned Number of Microbiological Analyses and Analytes Reported b

Product Class 

Planned for FY 2018 Planned for FY 2019 Planned for FY 2020 Di

(FY 

Samples Planned 

Tests Planned 

Analytes Planned 

Samples 

Planned 

Tests Planned 

Analytes Planned 

Samples Planned 

Tests Planned 

Analytes Planned 

Sa

Pla

Raw Beef 20,376 67,248 234,072 20,337 66,048 232,296 20,234 54,736 216,984 -10

Raw Pork 3,816 9,432 31,896 5,400 9,039 18,039 11,600 22,106 44,186 6,2Raw Poultry 42,984 105,228 175,380 38,859 55,824 60,240 48,540 66,024 66,024 9,6

Raw 2,460 2,460 2,460 1,660 1,660 1,660 1,660 1,660 1,660 0 Siluriformes 

RTE/EggsRTE 18,919 35,616 35,616 18,919 35,616 35,616 18,919 35,616 35,616 0 

RLm 1,487 1,392 1,392 5,437 5,088 5,088 5,437 5,088 5,088 0 Eggs 1,752 3,504 3,504 1,750 3,504 3,504 1,600 3,200 3,200 -15

NARMS 6,400 6,400 6,400 6,400 6,400 6,400 7,880 7,880 7,880 1,4Total 98,202 231,288 490,728 98,770 183,187 362,851 115,570 195,810 380,538 16

1The differences between FY 2019 and FY 2020 plans include the following: additional sampling for pork, expanded sam

establishments under categorization and the expansion of National Antimicrobial Resistance Monitoring System (NARMS

1 FOOD SAFETY AND INSPECTION SERVICE 2020 ANNUAL SAMPLING PROGRAM PLAN 
------------~-- -1

- -l-- -1-

Microbiological and Chemical Residue Sampling Planned Changes from FY 2018 – FY 2020 Table 2: Total Planned Number of Chemical Residue Analyses and Analytes Reporte

Product Class Planned for FY 2018 Planned for FY 2019 Planned for FY 2020 Di

(F

Samples Planned Tests Planned Analytes Planned Samples Planned Tests Planned Analytes Planned Samples Planned Tests Planned Analytes Planned Sa

Pl

Tier I Beef Cows 712 3,560 119,972 712 3,240 121,320 712 3,240 121,320 - Bob Veal 356 1,780 59,986 356 1,620 60,660 356 1,620 60,660 - Dairy Cows 712 3,560 119,972 712 3,240 121,320 712 3,240 121,320 - Heifers 356 1,780 59,986 356 1,620 60,660 356 1,620 60,660 - Steer 356 1,780 59,986 356 1,620 60,660 356 1,620 60,660 - Sows 712 3,560 116,768 712 2,160 111,600 712 2,160 111,600 - Market Swine 712 3,560 118,548 712 2,880 119,880 712 2,880 119,880 - Young Chickens 712 2,492 116,056 712 2,160 110,880 356 1,030 55,440 -3Whole Chickens - - - - - - 356 1,030 55,440 35Young Turkeys 712 2,492 116,056 712 2,160 110,880 712 2,160 110,880 - Tier II Sheep 150 525 23,325 150 546 25,584 100 357 16,728 -5Lamb - - - - - - 100 357 16,728 10Goats 300 1,050 46,650 300 1,050 49,200 300 900 35,100 - Roaster Swine 300 300 300 300 300 300 300 300 300 - Bulls/Stags 100 400 15,550 100 378 17,712

0

0

0 -1

Veal - Other 150 450 16,275 150 640 19,890 150 640 19,890 - Egg Product - - - 400 400 22,378 250 500 37,296 -1Tier III Siluriformes 2,450 12,500 368,750 1,650 8,358 323,034 1,650 8,358 323,034 - Other State NRP 1 - - - - - - - - - - 

Imports2

- - - - - - - - - - 

KISTM 4,000 8,000 424,000 4,000 8,000 424,000 4,000 8,000 424,000 - Total 12,790 47,789 1,782,180 12,390 40,372 1,759,958 12,190 40,012 1,750,936 -2

1FSIS devotes approximately 11% of samples for each applicable slaughter class to State NRP sampling.2The analyses for import testing are driven by TOI assignments based on expected volume.3The differences between FY 2019 and FY 2020 plans include the following: cessation of sampling the bull/stag slaughter c

goats to target avermectins, and the addition of lamb as a separate slaughter class from sheep, and the addition of anothe

2 FOOD SAFETY AND INSPECTION SERVICE 2020 ANNUAL SAMPLING PROGRAM PLAN 
Significant Changes for the FY 2020 Plan

Significant Changes for the FY 2020 Plan

The following table consists of key activities FSIS plans to implement in FY 2020. Each row consists of the 

challenges that the Agency faces moving into FY 2020, what process is impacted and the objective(s) to achieve 

during the fiscal year.

Table 3: FY 2020 Priorities 

Cause or Challenge that 

Prompted Change 

Impacted Sampling, 

Related Process or Analyte 

FY 2020 Planned Agency Goal, Target Objective, 

or Activity 

Support sampling plan, 

design, analysis, and future 

decision-making 

Sampling resource planning 

and allocation 

• Incorporate the Strategic Assessment of Sampling 

Resources findings and recommendations to 

modify future annual sampling plans as needed; 

help FSIS more efficiently manage sampling 

resources and inform resource allocation; close 

sampling gaps; and maximize the public health 

benefit through prioritizing testing by degree of 

hazard.

• Explore strategies to modernize sample task 

assignment in PHIS. This effort will focus on 

how the Agency can build consistency in sample 

collection at an establishment throughout the year. 

FSIS is moving towards • Revise FSIS Directive 10,240.4, Verification 

product sample selection Activities for the Lm Regulation and RTE Sampling 

for Ready-to-Eat products Listeria monocytogenes (Lm) Program to include a revised RTEPROD_RISK 

(RTEPROD) based on and Salmonella product sampling priority list for Inspection 

Listeria control alternative Program Personnel to use when selecting 

rather than product products for sample collection. 

PHRE methodology impacts 

how Risk-based Listeria 

monocytogenes (RLm) 

samples are scheduled. 

Listeria monocytogenes 

• Revise FSIS Directive 10,240.5, Verification 

Procedures for Enforcement, Investigation, 

and Analysis Officers (EIAOs) to include 

revised approach for scheduling RLm samples 

incorporating the PHRE methodology. 

FOOD SAFETY AND INSPECTION SERVICE 2020 ANNUAL SAMPLING PROGRAM PLAN 3 
 

Significant Changes for the FY 2020 Plan

Cause or Challenge that 

Prompted Change 

Impacted Sampling, 

Related Process or Analyte 

FY 2020 Planned Agency Goal, Target Objective, 

or Activity 

Changes to the National 

Residue Program (NRP) 

Goats 

• Since FY 2016, FSIS has reported multiple 

avermectin violations in goats analyzed under 

the NRP. Therefore, in the FY 2020 NRP, all 

goats sampled, instead of only half, will receive 

avermectin analysis. 

Nitrofurans 

• In FY 2018, FSIS conducted an exploratory study 

to evaluate whether semicarbazide (SEM), the 

primary metabolite of nitrofurazone, could be 

detected in chicken samples after chilling, despite 

not being detected prior to chilling. In response to 

the results of this exploratory study, in FY 2020, 

FSIS will begin collecting young chicken carcasses 

at a point prior to chilling for nitrofuran analysis. 

Heavy Calf and Bull/Stags 

• In FY 2017, heavy calf and bull/stags were added 

to the NRP. Since then no residues have been 

reported in these product classes; therefore, in FY 

2020, FSIS will discontinue sampling of heavy calf 

and bull/stags. 

Lambs/Sheep 

• In FY 2020, to enhance surveillance of both lamb 

and mature sheep, FSIS will redefine the sampling 

of this slaughter class by creating a specific project 

code for lamb and will increase the total number 

of samples from 150 to 200, split equally between 

both lamb (100 samples) and mature sheep (100 

samples). 

PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances) 

• With the support of Food and Drug Administration 

(FDA) and Environmental Protection Agency 

(EPA), FSIS will conduct sampling to determine 

the presence of PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl 

substances) in FSIS-regulated products. In FY

2020, condemned bovine samples collected under 

the inspector-generated sampling will be analyzed 

for the presence of PFAS. 

New Methodology 

• In FY 2020, the Agency will start using a next 

generation multi-residue screening method 

to strengthen its ability to detect animal drug 

residues. Screening and Confirmation of Animal 

Drug Residues by UHPLC-MS-MS (CLGMRM3.00) will be an improvement over the current 

CLG-MRM1.08 method due to the use of more 

sensitive instrumentation. As a result, the number 

of animal drug residues analyzed in a sample will 

increase from 92 to 107 unique compounds. The 

method is applicable for the analysis of kidney and 

muscle in several slaughter classes (beef, pork, 

poultry, goat, and sheep), as well as Siluriformes 

muscle and liquid egg products.

4 FOOD SAFETY AND INSPECTION SERVICE 2020 ANNUAL SAMPLING PROGRAM PLAN 
Significant Changes for the FY 2020 Plan

Cause or Challenge that 

Prompted Change 

Impacted Sampling, 

Related Process or Analyte 

FY 2020 Planned Agency Goal, Target Objective, 

or Activity 

• FSIS will explore the use of long-read sequencing 

technology to supplement WGS to completely 

sequence the genomes and plasmids from isolates 

of interest. 

Utilizing Whole Genome 

Sequencing (WGS) to 

obtain determinations 

previously done through 

other methods 

WGS 

• FSIS will explore replacement of Salmonella 

molecular serotyping method by reporting 

serotypes derived from WGS data. 

• FSIS will explore replacement of Antimicrobial 

Susceptibility Testing by the use of inferred 

resistance derived from WGS data. 

• Evaluate FSIS’ capability to use LIMS Direct to 

provide WGS data to industry. 

Address concerns about 

communication to industry 

about sample results 

Result Reporting 

• Resolve the LIMS Direct/PHIS timing issues. 

• Explore possibilities to reduce the time to report 

results for WGS. 

• Increase transparency of National Antimicrobial 

Resistance Monitoring System (NARMS) results. 

FOOD SAFETY AND INSPECTION SERVICE 2020 ANNUAL SAMPLING PROGRAM PLAN 5 
Significant Changes for the FY 2020 Plan

Table 4 contains the rationale for changes in sampling number allocations between FY 2019 and FY 2020 sampling 

plans. Each row identifies where the change will occur in the sampling program, a description of that program and 

the Agency’s reasoning for the changes. 

Table 4: Rationale for Changes in Sampling Allocations 

Sampling by Program/ 

Commodity Program Description Rationale for Any Changes from the FY 2019 Sampling Allocations 

Beef Products • FSIS conducts STEC sampling 

projects for product produced in 

domestic establishments, imported 

products, and raw ground beef 

collected at retail. 

• Raw non-intact beef products and 

raw beef products intended for 

raw non-intact use are eligible for 

sampling, including ground beef, 

bench trim, beef manufacturing 

trimmings, and other raw ground 

beef components. 

• FSIS analyzes all raw beef products 

collected under the routine and 

follow-up sampling programs, 

including raw ground beef, bench 

trim, beef manufacturing trimmings, 

and other raw ground beef 

components, for E. coli O157:H7 

and Salmonella. 

• Expand non-O157 STEC analysis to all 

other beef sampling projects (pending 

Federal Register notification and public 

comment period). 

• Initiate indicator organism analysis on beef. 

• Evaluate the options for enumeration of 

positive E. coli O157:H7 and Salmonella 

samples. 

Pork Products • FSIS is conducting the sampling 

program Raw Pork Products 

Sampling Project to analyze raw 

intact, non-intact, and comminuted 

domestic pork for Salmonella. 

• Due to the low recovery of STEC in samples 

tested in Phase II of the Raw Pork Products 

Exploratory Sampling Program, FSIS is 

entering into a research collaboration with 

USDA’s Agricultural Research Service (ARS) 

to continue diagnostics related to STEC in 

raw pork products sampled by FSIS; FSIS 

will share sample enrichments with ARS as 

part of a collaborative study analysis. 

• FSIS will expand sampling to a larger 

percentage of official establishments 

that FSIS plans to propose be subject to 

Salmonella performance standards. This 

will increase sampling by ~7,000 samples.

Suspend generic E. coli indicator analysis 

and instead analyze for aerobic counts.

• Evaluate the options for enumeration of 

positive Salmonella samples. 

6 FOOD SAFETY AND INSPECTION SERVICE 2020 ANNUAL SAMPLING PROGRAM PLAN 
7 FOOD SAFETY AND INSPECTION SERVICE 2020 ANNUAL SAMPLING PROGRAM PLAN

Significant Changes for the FY 2020 Plan

Sampling by Program/ 

Commodity Program Description Rationale for Any Changes from the FY 2019 Sampling Allocations 

Poultry Products • FSIS analyzes young chicken and 

turkey carcasses, comminuted 

chicken and turkey, and chicken 

part samples for Salmonella and 

Campylobacter. 

• Beginning August 2019, young chicken 

carcasses, young turkey carcasses, and 

chicken parts routine projects sampling 

frequency were based on a two-tier 

production volume method. In an effort to 

decrease the number of establishments 

not categorized under the performance 

standards due to too few samples analyzed, 

establishments with greater than 1000 but 

less than 250,000 lbs. of production volume 

will receive 2 sample tasks per month. 

Plants with a volume greater than 250,000 

lbs. will receive 5 sample tasks per month. 

This will increase allocations by 7,700 

samples for these projects. 

• End religious exempt and low volume 

poultry sampling. FY 2019 analyses 

indicated a higher percent positive in some 

product categories, although the overall 

volume of such products in the food supply 

is low. 

• Analyze the results of the remaining poultry 

exploratory sampling projects and determine 

next steps based on that analysis.

• Conduct an analysis to determine the final 

destination of mechanically separated 

poultry to determine whether to suspend this 

program. 

• Implement heavy fowl New Poultry 

Inspection System sampling, which will add 

300 rinsate samples. 

• Evaluate the options for enumeration of 

positive Salmonella samples. 

Siluriformes • FSIS analyzes raw fish of the 

order Siluriformes and ReadyTo-Eat (RTE) meat, egg product, 

and poultry product samples for 

Salmonella. 

• No allocation changes FY 2020.

FOOD SAFETY AND INSPECTION SERVICE 2020 ANNUAL SAMPLING PROGRAM PLAN 7 
Significant Changes for the FY 2020 Plan

Sampling by Program/ 

Commodity Program Description Rationale for Any Changes from the FY 2019 Sampling Allocations 

RTE: Meat, Poultry, and 

Egg Products 

• FSIS conducts microbiological 

testing for Lm and Salmonella in 

both domestically produced and 

imported egg products. 

• Product sampling is scheduled 

every month under random 

sampling and risk-based sampling 

projects under 2 RTEPROD 

projects. 

• RLm sampling program identifies 

establishments producing postlethality exposed RTE product. 

Samples, consisting of product, 

contact surfaces, and the 

processing environment, are 

collected and sampled for Lm under 

3 RLm project codes.

• Intensified Verification Testing 

(IVT) is carried out whenever an 

establishment has a positive sample 

collected under the RLm sampling 

program projects, or either one of 

the RTEPROD sampling projects. 

• Evaluate the options for enumeration 

of positive Listeria monocytogenes and 

Salmonella samples. 

8 FOOD SAFETY AND INSPECTION SERVICE 2020 ANNUAL SAMPLING PROGRAM PLAN 
9 FOOD SAFETY AND INSPECTION SERVICE 2020 ANNUAL SAMPLING PROGRAM PLAN

Significant Changes for the FY 2020 Plan

Sampling by Program/ 

Commodity Program Description Rationale for Any Changes from the FY 2019 Sampling Allocations 

NRP • The NRP product sampling 

numbers are determined through 

the Surveillance Advisory Team 

meeting. This meeting is held 

by an interagency committee 

that determines the chemical 

compounds and production classes 

of public health concern. The Tier 

1 sampling plan is the scheduled 

sampling for slaughter subclasses at 

the time of slaughter, after they have 

passed antemortem inspection. Tier 

2 sampling plan is in response to 

information (obtained by FDA and 

EPA and provided to FSIS) about 

potential misuse of animal drugs 

and/or exposure to environmental 

chemicals, as well as in response 

to Tier 1 analytical result. Tier 

3 sampling is similar to Tier 2 

sampling except that it is applied at 

the herd or flock level. 

(Please see the “Other Projects” 

Table for a description of the 

NARMS residue sampling project.) 

• FSIS Inspection Personnel perform 

inspector generated sampling in 

livestock slaughter species as per 

FSIS Directive 10,800.1. As per this 

same directive, a positive sample is 

submitted to the FSIS laboratory for 

confirmatory testing.

• New NRP projects with increased 

allocations are based on FDA and EPA 

analysis of exposure risk. The following 

allocation changes will occur in FY 2020.

○ FSIS will discontinue Tier 2 sampling 

of heavy calf and bull/stags which will 

remove allocations of 175 samples for 

these sampling projects. 

○ The addition of the lamb slaughter class 

will adjust sampling for sheep to 100 

samples and include an additional 100 

samples to analyze lamb. This will add 

50 samples.

○ FSIS will discontinue the KIS analysis on 

beef samples from the NRP. 

FOOD SAFETY AND INSPECTION SERVICE 2020 ANNUAL SAMPLING PROGRAM PLAN 9 
Significant Changes for the FY 2020 Plan

Sampling by Program/ 

Commodity Program Description Rationale for Any Changes from the FY 2019 Sampling Allocations 

Import Sampling • FSIS analyzes imported raw beef 

samples for E. coli O157:H7 and 

Salmonella. 

• FSIS analyzes imported beef 

manufacturing trimmings for 

non-O157 STEC, which includes the 

following six O-antigen groups: O26, 

O45, O103, O111, O121, and O145.

• FSIS analyzes imported poultry for 

Salmonella and Campylobacter. 

• FSIS analyzes imported raw pork 

products for Salmonella. 

• FSIS analyzes imported RTE and 

egg products for Lm and Salmonella 

in. 

• FSIS analyzes imported raw 

fish of the order Siluriformes for 

Salmonella. 

• FSIS analyzes imported meat and 

poultry products, and imported 

Siluriformes products for chemical 

residues and conducts speciation. 

• Realign samples allotted for MT51 (sampling 

for imported raw beef manufactured 

trimmings or components) from 1500 to 

1200 to adjust for expected volume and 

sampling rate. 

• Realign samples allotted for imported 

poultry products from 900 to 800 to adjust 

for the expected import volume and 

sampling rate. 

• Realign samples allotted for imported pork 

products from 900 to 600 to adjust for the 

expected volume and sampling rate.

Other Sampling • NARMS - FSIS analyzes cecal 

materials of beef, swine and 

young chicken and turkeys for 

the presence of Salmonella, 

Campylobacter, generic E. coli, and 

Enterococcus. 

• FSIS performs verification of 

species claims on domestic and 

imported product. 

• Increase NARMS sampling by 1,380 

samples. 

• Expand species analysis to include cat and 

dog. 

10 FOOD SAFETY AND INSPECTION SERVICE 2020 ANNUAL SAMPLING PROGRAM PLAN 
11 FOOD SAFETY AND INSPECTION SERVICE 2020 ANNUAL SAMPLING PROGRAM PLAN

Appendix A: Microbial Sampling Numbers by Product 

Appendices A-C outline the sampling plan grouped by product group and broken out by the individual sampling 

programs. Information for changes from previous years is provided in the preceding tables to the appendices. Totals 

in the appendices’ tables have been rounded. Each table contains the following information:

1. Planned number of samples to be analyzed in FY 2019; 

2. Number of samples actually analyzed in FY 2019; and

3. Planned number of samples to be analyzed in FY 2020.

Appendix A: Microbial Sampling Numbers by Product 

Appendix A summarizes the numbers of samples in FSIS’ microbiological sampling program and presents the number of samples planned and actually analyzed in FY 2019, and the number of samples planned to be analyzed in 

FY 2020, by product type. Raw products are presented first, beginning with beef (Table A2), followed by pork (Table 

A3), fish of the order Siluriformes (Table A4) and Poultry (Table A5). RTE, NRTE, and egg product sampling numbers are presented in Table A6.

Table A1 is a quick reference guide of the microbiological analytes by various FSIS regulated products in FY 2020. 

For a more in-depth review, the tables in the “Sampling by Product” section contain the stratification of the different 

analytes by product classes. 

Table A1: Summary of Analyte Tested by Product 

Product 

Microbiological Analyte 

Salmonella Campylobacter Lm 

E. coli 

O157:H7 

Non-O157 

STEC 

Indicator 

Organisms 

Raw Beef 

Raw Pork 

Raw Siluriformes 

Raw Poultry 

RTE Product 

Egg Products 

√

√

√

√ √

√

√

√

√

√ √1 √2

√2

√2

1

Only domestic raw beef manufacturing trim and imported raw beef trim. All other raw beef products are tested for 

Salmonella and E. coli O157:H7 only. 2

Dependent upon the program as not all beef, pork, and poultry projects are analyzed for indicator organisms.

FOOD SAFETY AND INSPECTION SERVICE 2020 ANNUAL SAMPLING PROGRAM PLAN 11 
Appendix A: Microbial Sampling Numbers by Product 

Table A2: FY 2019 and FY 2020 Sample Numbers for Raw Beef 

Product Class 

Sampling 

Project Pathogen(s) 

Number of Samples 

FY 2019 

Number of Samples 

FY 2020 

Planned Actual Planned 

Raw ground beef 

Follow-up testing to a 

ground beef E. coli positive1

Raw ground beef components other than trim 

Bench trim 

Beef manufacturing trim 

Follow-up testing at 

supplier establishments 

following MT43, MT44, or 

MT65 positive1

Follow-up testing 

to an MT60, MT64, 

MT65, or MT52 

positive1

Raw ground beef at retail 

stores 

Follow-up testing to a MT05 

sample1

Imported raw ground beef2

Imported trim and other 

raw ground beef 

components2

MT43

MT44 and 

MT44T

MT64

MT65

MT60

MT52

MT53

MT05

MT06

MT08

MT51

E. coli O157:H7 

and Salmonella 

E. coli O157:H7 

and Salmonella 

E. coli O157:H7 

and Salmonella 

E. coli O157:H7 

and Salmonella 

E. coli O157:H7, 

Non-O157 STEC 

and Salmonella 

E. coli O157:H7, 

Non-O157 STEC 

and Salmonella 

E. coli O157:H7, 

Non-O157 STEC 

and Salmonella 

E. coli O157:H7 

and Salmonella 

E. coli O157:H7 

and Salmonella 

E. coli O157:H7 

and Salmonella 

E. coli O157:H7, 

Non-O157 STEC 

and Salmonella 

11,500 10,685

TBD 63

1,050 1,214

1,500 1,350

3,750 4,076

TBD 61

TBD 515

575 531

TBD 0

50 43

1,500 921

11,500

TBD 

1,050

1,500

3,750

TBD 

TBD 

575

TBD 

50

1,200

1

Dependent on positive findings from other E. coli O157:H7 or non-O157 STEC sampling projects. 2

Lab sampling for Imports depends on the number of shipments received by country and product. 

12 FOOD SAFETY AND INSPECTION SERVICE 2020 ANNUAL SAMPLING PROGRAM PLAN 
Appendix A: Microbial Sampling Numbers by Product 

Table A3: FY 2019 and FY 2020 Sample Numbers for Raw Pork 

Product Class 

Sampling 

Project Pathogen(s) 

Number of Samples

FY 2019 

Number of Samples

FY 2020 

Planned Actual Planned 

Comminuted 

Pork Exploratory 

Sampling 

Comminuted Pork 

Intact Pork Cuts Exploratory Sampling 

Non- Intact Pork 

Cuts Exploratory 

Sampling 

Intact and NonIntact Cuts 

Imported Pork1 

EXP_PK_COM02

HC_PK_COM01

EXP_PK_ICT02

EXP_PK_NCT02

HC_PK_CUT01

IMP_PORK 

Salmonella and 

Indicator Organisms 

Salmonella and 

Indicator Organisms 

Salmonella and 

Indicator Organisms 

Salmonella and 

Indicator Organisms 

Salmonella and 

Indicator Organisms 

Salmonella 

1,704 1,672

- -

1,521 1,347

1,272 1,155

- -

900 339

0

8,640

0

0

2,400

600

1

Sampling for imports depends on the number of shipments received by country and product. 

Table A4: FY 2019 and FY 2020 Sample Numbers for Raw Siluriformes 

Number of Samples Number of Samples 

Product Class Sampling Project Analyses 

FY 2019 FY 2020 

Planned Actual Planned 

Domestic Raw EXP_FI_MIC01 Salmonella 650 608 650

fish of the order 

Siluriformes 

Imported Raw IMPFISH_MI Salmonella 1,000 745 1,000

fish of the order 

Siluriformes1

1

Sampling for imports depends on the number of shipments received by country and product 

FOOD SAFETY AND INSPECTION SERVICE 2020 ANNUAL SAMPLING PROGRAM PLAN 13 
Appendix A: Microbial Sampling Numbers by Product 

Table A5: FY 2019 and FY 2020 Sample Numbers for Raw Poultry 

Product Class Sampling Project Pathogen(s) 

Number of Samples 

FY 2019 

Number of Samples 

FY 2020 

Planned Actual Planned 

Young Chicken 

Carcasses 

Ground and Other 

Comminuted Chicken 

(not Mechanically 

Separated) 

Exploratory -

Mechanically 

Separated Chicken 

Chicken Parts – 

Legs, Breasts, Wings 

Chicken Parts – 

Other Parts 

Chicken Parts – 

Quarters, Halves 

Turkey Carcasses 

Ground and Other 

Comminuted Turkey 

(not Mechanically 

Separated) 

Exploratory -

Mechanically 

Separated Turkey 

Imported Raw Intact 

Chicken and Turkey2

Religious exempt 

establishments 

Low Volume 

Establishments 

Follow-up Sampling 

for Chicken 

Parts, Carcasses, 

Comminuted Chicken 

and Turkey1

HC_CH_CARC01

HC_CH_COM01

EXP_CH_MSK01

HC_CPT_LBW01

EXP_CPT_OT01

EXP_CPT_QH01

HC_TU_CARC01

HC_TU_COM01

EXP_TU_MSK01

IMP_POULTRY 

RE_CH_CARC01

LO_CH_CARC01

LO_TU_CARC01

LO_CH_COM01

LO_TU_COM01

LO_CH_MSK01

LO_TU_MSK01

LO_CPT_LBW01

LO_CPT_OT01

LO_CPT_QH01

F_CPT_LBW01

F_CH_COM01

F_TU_COM01

F_CH_CARC01

F_TU_CARC01

Salmonella, 

Campylobacter 

Salmonella, 

Campylobacter 

Salmonella, 

Campylobacter 

Salmonella, 

Campylobacter 

Salmonella, 

Campylobacter 

Salmonella, 

Campylobacter 

Salmonella, 

Campylobacter 

Salmonella, 

Campylobacter 

Salmonella, 

Campylobacter 

Salmonella, 

Campylobacter 

Salmonella, 

Campylobacter 

Salmonella, 

Campylobacter 

Salmonella, 

Campylobacter 

9,000 8,999

2,500 2,032

150 119

9,000 9,410

360 298

120 90

2,000 1,847

1,500 1,495

150 103

900 690

2,200 2,261

TBD 2,249

9,630

2,500

150

16,300

80

120

1,730

1,500

150

800

0

TBD 

1

Dependent on findings from other Salmonella and Campylobacter projects. 2

Sampling for imports depends on the number of shipments received by country and product. 

14 FOOD SAFETY AND INSPECTION SERVICE 2020 ANNUAL SAMPLING PROGRAM PLAN 
 

Appendix A: Microbial Sampling Numbers by Product 

Table A6: FY 2019 and FY 2020 Sample Numbers for RTE, NRTE and Egg Products 

Product Class Sampling Project Pathogen(s) 

Number of Samples 

FY 2019 

Number of Samples 

FY 2020 

Planned Actual Planned 

Both post lethality-exposed

and non-post lethalityexposed RTE products

Post lethality-exposed RTE

products 

RLm product samples 

(Composited 5-sample

Units) 

RLm food contact surface 

samples 

RLm non-food contact

environmental samples 

(Composited 5-sample

Units) 

Intensified Verification

Testing (IVT) product 

samples1

IVT food contact surface 

samples1

IVT non-food contact

environmental samples1

Imported intact RTE 

product3

Follow-up testing to

imported RTE product 

Follow-up testing to

imported RTE product 

Egg Products 

Pasteurized imported

liquid, frozen or dried egg

products 

RTEPROD_Rand 

RTEPROD_Risk 

RLMPRODC 

RLMCONT 

RLMENVC 

INTPROD 

INTCONT 

INTENV 

IMVRTE 

FLISTERIA 

FRTESALMONEL 

EM31-EM37

EGGIMP 

Lm & Salmonella 

Lm & Salmonella 

Lm 

Lm 

Lm 

Lm or Salmonella 

Lm or Salmonella 

Lm or Salmonella 

Lm & Salmonella 

Lm 

Salmonella 

Lm & Salmonella 

Lm & Salmonella 

7,400

7,400

423 

(2,125)2

4,218 

423 

(2,125)2

TBD 

TBD 

TBD 

3,000

TBD 

TBD 

1,600

150

6,986

7,571

264

2,637

267

1,071

603

544

2,891

2

0

1,652

132

7,400

7,400

423 (2,125)2

4,218 

423 (2,125)2

TBD 

TBD 

TBD 

3,000

TBD 

TBD 

1,600

150

Abbreviations: NRTE, not-ready-to-eat; RTE, ready-to-eat.

1

Dependent on positive findings from RTEPROD_RAND, RTEPROD_RISK, and RLm sampling projects 2

The number in parenthesis represents the number of samples collected by OFO to generate 1 composite sample 

submission. 

3

Sampling for imports depends on the number of shipments received by country and product. 

FOOD SAFETY AND INSPECTION SERVICE 2020 ANNUAL SAMPLING PROGRAM PLAN 15 
Appendix B: Chemical Residue Sampling Numbers by Product 

Appendix B summarizes the numbers of samples in FSIS’ chemical residue sampling program for FY 2019 and FY

2020. Table B1 presents the number of samples by production class. Tables B2 – B5 present the number of analyses performed by method used in each production class broken out by Tiers and Import sampling. In these tables 

the values for the number of analyses performed are color coded to reflect where the analysis is taking place. Red 

represents analyses performed only at the Eastern Laboratory; green are analyses performed only at the Western 

Laboratory; blue are samples that are spilt half at Eastern and half at Western Laboratories; and purple are analyses 

performed only at the Midwestern Laboratory. 

Table B1: FY 2019 and FY 2020 Sample Numbers for Chemical Residues 

Production Class Sampling Project 

Number of Samples 

FY 2019 

Number of Samples 

FY 2020 

Planned Actual Planned 

Beef Cows 

Beef Cow – State1

Bob Veal 

Bob Veal - State1

Dairy Cows 

Dairy Cows – State1

Heifers 

Heifers – State1

Steer 

Steer - State1

Market Swine 

Market Swine - State1

Sows 

Sows – State1

Young Chicken 

Young Chicken - State1

Whole Chicken 

Young Turkey 

Young Turkey – State1

Sheep 

Lambs 

Goats 

Roaster Swine 

Bulls/Stags 

Veal other than bob veal 

Feral Swine 

Egg products 

Siluriformes – Domestic 

NRP_BC 

NRP_BC_S 

NRP_BV 

NRP_BV_S 

NRP_DC 

NRP_DC_S 

NRP_HF 

NRP_HF_S 

NRP_ST 

NRP_ST_S 

NRP_MS 

NRP_MS_S 

NRP_SW 

NRP_SW_S 

NRP_YC 

NRP_YC_S 

NRP_WC 

NRP_YT 

NRP_YT_S 

NRP_SH 

NRP_LA 

NRP_GO 

NRP_RS 

NRP_BS 

NRP_HC6

, 

NRP_FFV, 

NRP_NFFV 

NRP_FS 

NRP_EG 

RES_FI 

712 754

88 54

356 391

44 0

712 758

88 50

356 442

44 74

356 397

44 103

712 725

88 98

712 679

88 52

712 716

88 17

0 -

712 639

88 7

150 161

0 -

300 282

300 396

100 87

150 184

75 99

400 19

650 619

712

88

356

44

712

88

356

44

356

44

712

88

712

88

356

88

356

712

88

100

100

300

300

0

150

75

250

650

16 FOOD SAFETY AND INSPECTION SERVICE 2020 ANNUAL SAMPLING PROGRAM PLAN 
Appendix B: Chemical Residue Sampling Numbers by Product 

Production Class Sampling Project 

Number of Samples 

FY 2019 

Number of Samples 

FY 2020 

Planned Actual Planned 

Siluriformes – Imports5 

Dioxin Survey 

KISTM Test2

KISTM Test – Laboratory Confirmation3

Collector Generated Residues 

Import Residue 

IMPFISH_CH_E and 

IMPFISH_CH_W 

DIOX_18_xx4

KIS 

KIS 

Various 

Various 

1,000 782

610 600

NA 175,248

NA 3,564

NA 201

2,000 1,935

1,000

0

NA 

NA 

NA 

2,000

Abbreviations: KISTM, Kidney Inhibition Swab; NA, non-applicable.

1

FSIS schedules 11 percent of the total samples per year for state establishments, which are part of the state meat 

and poultry inspection (MPI) program, who produce the same species as those at federally inspected establishments. 

2

These KISTM tests are performed by OFO in the field and not by the laboratories.

3

FSIS in-plant inspection personnel send positive KISTM tests to FSIS laboratories for confirmation.

4

FSIS conducted the Dioxin survey on poultry (YC – young chicken; YT – young turkey), pork (MH – market hogs) 

and beef (STHR – steers and heifers) products. The “xx” indicated above will be replaced by the two-letter identifier 

in the parenthesis for each product group of this note, or an alternate project code may be implemented, the ARS 

labs will be performing the analysis of these samples. 

5

Sampling for imports depends on the number of shipments received by country and product. 

6

The NRP_HC sampling project is discontinued in FY 2020. The samples allocated to Veal other than bob veal will 

be split between NRP_FFV and NRP_NFFV. 

FOOD SAFETY AND INSPECTION SERVICE 2020 ANNUAL SAMPLING PROGRAM PLAN 17 
- - -

Appendix B: Chemical Residue Sampling Numbers by Product 

Table B2: Number of Chemical Residues Analysis by Production Class: Tier 1 

Methods 

Number of Animals 

Aminoglyco sides (M,L,K) 

Antifungal Dyes (M) 

Avermectins (M,L) 

Β-agonist (M,L) 

Carbadox (L) 

Metals (M,L,K) 

Multi-resi due (M,L,K) 

Nitrofu rans (M) 

Beef cows Bob veal Dairy cows Heifers Steers Roaster swine Market swine Sows Young chickens Young whole chicken Young turkeys Goats Siluriformes Egg products 

N= 800 N= 400 N= 800 N= 400 N= 400 N= 300 N= 800 N= 800 N= 400 

N=400 

N= 800 N= 300 N= 650 N= 400 

8003

4003800340034003

-

8003

80034001

4002

80033001

--

------------

3251

-

4001

2001400120012001

-

4001

4001

---

3001

--

4002

2002400220022002

-

2002

2002

------

-----

3002

--

------

10011001100110011001

-

1001

1001

1501

-

1501

-

3251

-

8003

4003800340034003

-

8003

80034001

4002

8003

3001

6503

2502

---------

4002

4002

-

3252

-

 Total 6300 325 2500 1800 300 1325 7200 1125 

1Red = Eastern Lab only; 2Green = Western Lab only; 3Blue = split half at Eastern and half at Western Labs; 4Purple = 

18 FOOD SAFETY AND INSPECTION SERVICE 2020 ANNUAL SAMPLING PROGRAM PLAN 
- 

- 

I I I I I I I I I 

I I I I I I I I I 

Appendix B: Chemical Residue Sampling Numbers by Product 

Table B3: Number of Chemical Residues Analysis by Production Class: Tier 2 

Number Multi- of Aminoglyco- Antifungal Avermec Β-agonist Carbadox Metals residue Nitro

Methods Animals sides (M,L,K) Dyes (M) tins (M,L) (M,L) (L) (M,L,K) (M,L,K) rans 

Formula-fed Veal N= 75 753 - - 372 - - 75 - 

Non-formula-fed Veal N= 75 753 - - 372 - - 75 - Sheep N= 100 1003 - 501 - - - 100 - 

Lamb N= 100 1003 - 501 - - - 100 - Total 350 0 100 74 0 0 350 0 

1Red = Eastern Lab only; 2Green = Western Lab only; 3Blue = split half at Eastern and half at Western Labs; 4Purple = 

Table B4: Number of Chemical Residues Analysis by Production Class: Tier 3 

Methods 

Number of Animals 

Aminoglycosides (M,L,K) Antifungal Dyes (M) Avermec tins (M,L) Β-agonist (M,L) Carbadox (L) Metals (M,L,K) 

Multiresidue (M,L,K) 

Nitrorans 

Feral Swine N=75 - - - - - - - - 

Total 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 

19 FOOD SAFETY AND INSPECTION SERVICE 2020 ANNUAL SAMPLING PROGRAM PLAN 
- 

I I I I I I I I 

Appendix B: Chemical Residue Sampling Numbers by Product 

Table B5: Number of Chemical Residues Analysis by Production Class: Imports 

Methods Aminoglycosides 

Antifungal Dyes 

Avermec tins Β-agonist Carbadox Metals 

Multi-residue Nitrofu- rans 

Beef, Raw 2003 - 1001 1002 - 501 2003 - 

Beef, Processed - - 251 - - 121 - - 

Chicken, Raw 503 - - - - 251 503 252 

Chicken, Processed 

- - - - - 51 - - 

Turkey, Raw 403 - - - - 101 403 252 

Turkey, Processed - - - - - 51 - - 

Veal, Raw 703 - 251 352 - - 703 - 

Veal, Processed - - 51 - - - - - 

Goat, Raw 253 - 151 - - - 253 - 

Goat, Processed - - 51 - - - - - 

Lamb, Raw 203 - 101 - - - 203 - 

Lamb, Processed 

- - 51 - - - - - 

Mutton, Raw 53 - 101 - - - 53 - 

Mutton, Processed 

- - 51 - - - - - 

Pork, Raw 2003 - 1001 1002 - 501 2003 - 

Pork, Processed - - 251 - - 121 - - 

Siluriformes, Raw 

- 9001 - - - 9001 18003 9002 

Egg products - - - - - - - - Total 610 900 330 235 0 1069 2410 950 

1Red = Eastern Lab only; 2Green = Western Lab only; 3Blue = split half at Eastern and half at Western Labs; 4Purple = 

20 FOOD SAFETY AND INSPECTION SERVICE 2020 ANNUAL SAMPLING PROGRAM PLAN 
Appendix C: Other Sampling Programs 

Table C1 summarizes the numbers of samples in FSIS’ sampling programs other than microbiological and chemical 

residue sampling programs for FY 2019 and FY 2020.

Table C1: FY 2019 and FY 2020 Sample Numbers for FSIS Sampling Programs 

other than Microbiological and Chemical Residues 

Sampling Project Sampling Project 

Number of Samples

FY 2019 

Number of Samples

FY 2020 

Planned Actual Planned 

Domestic AMR - Beef1

Import AMR – Beef1

Follow-up AMR01 – Beef1,2

NARMS 

Foodborne Illness and Outbreak Sampling3,4

Label Verification for Nutrient Content - Raw 

Ground Beef 

Label Verification – Allergens5 

Label Verification – Antibiotic Free5 

Label Verification – Hormone Free5 

Species Identification - Collector Generated

Import Species Identification

Food Chemistry - Collector Generated5 

Compliance Testing3,6

Pathology - Collector Generated3,7

Import - Abnormal Container 

AMR01

IMPAMRBEEF 

FAMR01

NARMS 

Various 

EXP_LV_NUTR 

EXP_LV_SOY 

EXP_LV_ABX 

EXP_LV_HORM 

SPECID 

IMPSPECIESID 

FOODCHEM 

COMPLIAN 

Various 

IMPABNCONT 

and ABNCONT 

150 81

10 5 

NA 2

6,400 6,206

7,000 40

200 15

200 2

400 125

200 27

NA 0

250 179

NA 0

NA 140

NA 3,205

NA 17

150

10

NA 

7,880

7,000

200

200

400

200

NA 

250

NA 

NA 

NA 

NA 

Abbreviations: AMR, advanced meat recovery; NARMS, National Antimicrobial Resistance Monitoring System. 

1

FSIS collects samples in regulated establishments to test for AMR processes to verify that industry is preventing 

beef spinal cord material from entering the food supply and being misrepresented as meat. If an AMR sample is 

positive, additional samples are assigned to the establishment in PHIS through the FAMR01 sampling. 2

Dependent on positive findings from the AMR01 sampling project.

3

Samples for these projects are not planned in advance, but rather an inspector in the field can collect a sample 

on the basis of their findings or other circumstances. The planned samples for the Foodborne Illness and Outbreak 

Sampling is a baseline of 2,000 samples plus a calculated projected number of samples that includes the follow-up 

sampling. Follow-up sampling actual values are located within their respective product class tables.

4

FSIS collects and analyzes food samples potentially related to human disease outbreaks. Analyses include cultural 

and molecular methods such as polymerase chain reaction (PCR), antimicrobial susceptibility testing, and molecular serotyping to identify and further characterize organisms in outbreak samples

5

FSIS performs food chemistry analyses such as moisture, protein, fat, and testing for the presence of food additives to identify mislabeling, economic fraud, and adulteration of meat, poultry, and egg products 

6

FSIS investigators collect compliance samples at in-commerce businesses on a “for-cause” basis in response to 

complaints, allegations, and their own observations during routine or for-cause surveillance activities.

7

FSIS carries out diagnostic and consultative pathology services to identify diseases, parasites, and related conditions in response to the needs of field operations.

FOOD SAFETY AND INSPECTION SERVICE 2020 ANNUAL SAMPLING PROGRAM PLAN 21 
Appendix D: Sample Distribution by Production Volume Category 

These tables identify establishment sampling task distribution by production volume of products eligible for the various sampAnalysis Critical Control Point (HACCP) categories. Sample task assignment varies by establishment and is reliant upon the PHIS establishment profile. An establishment can be categorized into very small, small, or large HACCP size according to thgross sales. However, the daily production volume of meat, poultry, and egg products has a greater impact on sample task aprogram is designed to verify certain HACCP processes (slaughter, raw intact, RTE, etc.) for specific species and slaughter cbeef cattle, young chicken, etc.). Establishments may produce multiple species of products under multiple HACCP processesand diversity of production processes influence the types and frequencies of FSIS sampling. This appendix offers four exampa variety of production processes and volumes. Table D2 first provides a summary of those examples and illustrates how the sample tasks assignment. Each of the four examples then details the sample task assignment.

Table D1: Maximum Number of Monthly Sampling Tasks 

Daily Production Volume Category Large Medium Small 

>1,000,000 lb 

600,001 – 1,000,000 lb 

250,001 – 600,000 lb 

50,001 – 250,000 lb 

6,001 – 50,000 lb 

3,001 – 6,000 lb 

1,101 – 3,000 lb 

101 1,10

MT projects 

Poultry Carcasses 

Poultry Parts 

Poultry Comminuted 

Pork Comminuted 

Pork Cuts 

RTE products 

4 4 4

5 5 5 

5 5 5 

5 5 5 

NA 5 5 

5 5 5 

1 1 1

3

2

2

5 

5 

5 

1

2

2

2

5 

5 

0

1

2

2

2

5 

0

0

1

2

2

2

5 

0

0

1

1

0

0

0

0

0

1

22 FOOD SAFETY AND INSPECTION SERVICE 2020 ANNUAL SAMPLING PROGRAM PLAN 
Appendix D: Sample Distribution by Product Volume Category 

Table D2: Summary of the Examples of Sampling from Establishments 

with Various Volumes and Processes of Production 

Example Product/Volume in Plant Profile Number Qualifying 

Projects 

Number Samples/ 

month 

1 

2 

3 

4 

Raw – Intact / 50,001-250,000

Raw - Non-Intact / 3,001-6,000

Slaughter / 250,001-600,000

Fully Cooked - Not Shelf Stable / 1,001-3,000

Heat Treated - Not Fully Cooked - Not Shelf Stable / 

1,001-3,000

Raw – Intact / 6,001-50,000

Raw - Non-Intact / 3,001-6,000

Slaughter / 6,001-50,000

Raw – Intact / 1,001-3,000

Raw - Non-Intact / 101-1,000

Slaughter / 101-1,000

Raw – Intact / > 1,000,000

Raw - Non-Intact / > 1,000,000

5 

10

9

5 

11

12

16

9

Example 1 

Example 1 is a mid-range volume poultry establishment with a small HACCP size. There are three different HACCP

processes, including slaughter and further processing, all involving the same slaughter species and class (young 

chicken). The three different young chicken HACCP production processes qualify for five separate poultry sampling 

tasks which generate 11 monthly sampling tasks. This example demonstrates how multiple processes affected the 

number of sampling tasks, even though the overall volume produced was not a large amount. 

HACCP Processes 

HACCP Category Volume (lbs/day) 

Raw - Intact 50,001-250,000

Raw - Non-Intact 3,001-6,000

Slaughter 250,001-600,000

Sampling Projects 

Project Code Project Name 

EXP_CPT_OT01 

HC_CH_CARC01 

HC_CH_COM01 

HC_CPT_LBW01 

NRP_YC 

Exploratory Sampling for Chicken Parts - Other Parts

HACCP Verification for Young Chicken Carcasses

Sampling for Ground and Other Comminuted Chicken (not Mechanically 

Separated) 

Sampling for Chicken Parts – Legs, Breasts, and Wings 

National Residue Program Sampling - Young Chickens

FOOD SAFETY AND INSPECTION SERVICE 2020 ANNUAL SAMPLING PROGRAM PLAN 23 
Appendix D: Sample Distribution by Product Volume Category 

Example 2 

Example 2 is a multi-species establishment with a very small HACCP size producing various species of products 

under five of the nine HACCP processes. Although they have fewer production days, the total daily volume is equal 

to or larger than other establishments with more days of production but fewer species and HACCP processes. This 

very small multi-species establishment could potentially be assigned 12 sampling tasks each month. 

HACCP Processes 

HACCP Category Volume (lbs/day) 

Fully Cooked - Not Shelf Stable 

Heat Treated - Not Fully Cooked - Not 

Shelf Stable 

Raw - Intact 

Raw - Non Intact 

Slaughter 

1,001-3,000

1,001-3,000

6,001-50,000

3,001-6,000

6,001-50,000

Sampling Projects 

Project Code Project Name 

F_CH_CARC01 

HC_CH_CARC01 

HC_CPT_LBW01 

KIS 

LO_CH_COM01 

LO_TU_CARC01 

NARMS_MS 

NARMS_YC 

NRP_RS 

RTEPROD_RAND 

Follow-up sampling of Chicken Carcasses

HACCP Verification for Young Chicken Carcasses

Sampling for Chicken Parts – Legs, Breasts, and Wings 

KIS - Samples from In-plant Testing

Very Low Volume Sampling for Ground and Other Comminuted Chicken (not 

Mechanically Separated) 

Very Low Volume Sampling for Turkey Carcasses 

NARMS-National Antimicrobial Resistance Monitoring System SamplingMarket 

Swine 

NARMS-Young Chickens

National Residue Sampling Program - Roaster Swine

RTEPROD Sampling - Random RTE Products

Example 3 

Example 3 is a multi-species establishment with a small HACCP size and lower production volumes than Example 

1. Even though the establishment has a low daily production volume, it may receive around 16 sampling tasks per 

month because of the scope of the products produced and species. 

HACCP Processes 

HACCP Category Volume (lbs/day) 

Raw - Intact 1,001-3,000

Raw - Non-Intact 101-1,000

Slaughter 101-1,000

24 FOOD SAFETY AND INSPECTION SERVICE 2020 ANNUAL SAMPLING PROGRAM PLAN 
--------

Appendix D: Sample Distribution by Product Volume Category 

Sampling Projects 

Project Code Project Name 

EXP_CPT_OT01 

EXP_LV_ABX 

HC_CH_CARC01 

HC_CH_COM01 

HC_CPT_LBW01 

LO_TU_CARC01 

MT43 

NRP_YT 

RE_CH_CARC01 

Exploratory Sampling for Chicken Parts - Other Parts

Label Verification for Antibiotic Free

HACCP Verification for Young Chicken Carcasses

Sampling for Ground and Other Comminuted Chicken (not Mechanically 

Separated) 

Sampling for Chicken Parts – Legs, Breasts, and Wings 

Very Low Volume Sampling for Turkey Carcasses 

Risk-based Sampling of Raw Ground Beef or Veal Products - E.coli 

O157:H7 &

Salmonella 

National Residue Program Sampling - Young Turkeys

Religious Exempt Sampling for Chicken Carcasses

Example 4 

Example 4 is a single species, high volume, large sized HACCP establishment. Even though it produces product in 

the highest agency volume category, the establishment receives the fewest tasks of all the examples at 9 tasks per 

month due to the limited products and species. 

HACCP Processes 

HACCP Category Volume (lbs/day) 

Raw - Intact > 1,000,000

Raw – Non-Intact > 1,000,000

Sampling Projects 

Project Code Project Name 

EXP_CPT_OT01 

EXP_CPT_QH01 

HC_CPT_LBW01 

NARMS_YC 

NRP_YC 

Exploratory Sampling for Chicken Parts - Other Parts

Exploratory Sampling for Chicken Parts - Quarter and Half Carcasses

Sampling for Chicken Parts – Legs, Breasts, and Wings 

NARMS-Young Chickens

National Residue Program Sampling - Young Chickens

FOOD SAFETY AND INSPECTION SERVICE 2020 ANNUAL SAMPLING PROGRAM PLAN 25 
 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Appendix E: Terms, Definitions, and References

Terms and Definitions

Analyses: A target detection methodology is applied to a sample based on the sampling project. 

Analytes: The target of detection in the analysis, whether it is for microbiological pathogens, chemical residues, 

pathology diagnoses, or other various analyses. 

Analyzed: A sample was processed by the laboratory. 

Beef Manufacturing Trimmings: Product trimmings produced from cattle slaughtered onsite. 

Bench Trim: Product trimmings derived from cattle not slaughtered onsite (i.e., purchased product). 

Comminuted: Product that has been ground, mechanically separated, or hand- or mechanically deboned and 

further chopped, flaked, minced or otherwise processed to reduce particle size.

Distributed: FSIS sampling task scheduling algorithm results in a sampling task to appear in PHIS. The 

algorithm may set to over distribute samples in order to compensate for predicted under performance 

in a particular sampling project. This excess distribution is often referred to as “over scheduling.”

Follow-up sampling: Sampling that is a result of failed standards or moving windows.

Performed: A sample was collected and submitted to the laboratory. 

Planned: Quantity of samples identified by the workgroup and annual FSIS Sampling Plan.

Routine Sample: Sample collected for sampling projects which are planned with predicted collection frequencies

based on establishments’ regular operations. Positive routine samples, or other unpredicted events, 

may trigger additional sample collections whose samples would not be considered “routine.” 

Sampling gaps: The difference in the desired number of samples or products samples and the actual 

quantity analyzed.

Sampling Plan: Annual agency reissuance of the FSIS Report on the Food Safety and Inspection Service 

Microbiological and Residue Sampling Programs, first issued in December 2011, and comprehensively

identifies sampling programs, including statistical and policy basis. The data-driven strategic planning

effort for microbiological and chemical residue sampling activities are aligned with the Agency’s 

Strategic and Annual Plan priorities. 

Sample Scheduling Frequency: The sampling frequency targeting the number of samples collected on

an annual basis instead of focusing on specific collection rates. In order to collect samples from

infrequent producers and optimize the total number of samples collected and analyzed, FSIS

adjusts the number of samples being scheduled based on the average number of samples collected 

throughout the sampling year. 

Scheduled: A sample is specifically designated a collection date by the FSIS user in PHIS. A FSIS user may not

be able to schedule all of the samples distributed to a particular establishment due to factors such as 

eligible project availability and assignment operations. 

26 FOOD SAFETY AND INSPECTION SERVICE 2020 ANNUAL SAMPLING PROGRAM PLAN 
 

27 FOOD SAFETY AND INSPECTION SERVICE 2020 ANNUAL SAMPLING PROGRAM PLAN

References 

More information on Food Safety and Inspection Service Microbiological and Residue Sampling Programs is available at: http://www.fsis.usda.gov/wps/wcm/connect/0816b926-c7ee-4c24-9222- 34ac674ec047/FSIS_Sampling_

Programs_Report.pdf?MOD=AJPERES 

Previous annual sampling plans are available at: http://www.fsis.usda.gov/wps/portal/fsis/topics/data-collection-and-reports/fsis-data-analysis-and-reporting/data-reporting

FY2017-2021 FSIS Strategic Plan is available at: http://www.fsis.usda.gov/wps/wcm/connect/317d14d6-1759-

448e-941a-de3cbff289e5/Strategic-Plan-2017-2021.pdf?MOD=AJPERES

For more information about FSIS’ role in sample collection for BSE, please see FSIS Directive 10,400.1 at http://

www.fsis.usda.gov/wps/wcm/connect/09bf6ed8-1e4b-4ef5-a3e1-fa454b116b8e/10400.1.pdf?MOD=AJPERES. 

Additional data for NARMS can be found at:

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website: http://www.cdc.gov/narms/reports/

FDA website: http://www.fda.gov/AnimalVeterinary/SafetyHealth/AntimicrobialResistance/NationalAntimicrobialResistanceMonitoringSystem/default.htm 

USDA website:

https://www.fsis.usda.gov/wps/portal/fsis/topics/data-collection-and-reports/microbiology/antimicrobial-resistance/

narms 

FOOD SAFETY AND INSPECTION SERVICE 2020 ANNUAL SAMPLING PROGRAM PLAN 27 
 

 

 

 

28 FOOD SAFETY AND INSPECTION SERVICE 2020 ANNUAL SAMPLING PROGRAM PLAN

FSIS CORE VALUES 

ACCOUNTABLE 

FSIS holds itself accountable in fulfilling its regulatory mission and in 

serving the public interest. 

COLLABORATIVE 

FSIS actively promotes and encourages collaboration within our 

Agency and with our partners to prevent illness and protect public 

health. 

EMPOWERED 

FSIS employees are empowered with the necessary training, 

tools, and approaches they need to make and carry out informed 

decisions that protect public health and promote food safety. 

SOLUTIONS-ORIENTED

FSIS is committed to deploying effective, evidence-based solutions 

to ensure that the Nation’s food supply is safe. 

In accordance with Federal civil rights law and U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) civil rights regulations 

and policies, USDA, its Mission Areas, agencies, staff offices, employees, and institutions participating in or

administering USDA programs are prohibited from discriminating based on race, color, national origin, religion, 

sex, gender identity (including gender expression), sexual orientation, disability, age, marital status, family/parental

status, income derived from a public assistance program, political beliefs, or reprisal or retaliation for prior civil 

rights activity, in any program or activity conducted or funded by USDA (not all bases apply to all programs). 

Remedies and complaint filing deadlines vary by program or incident.

Program information may be made available in languages other than English. Persons with disabilities who require

alternative means of communication to obtain program information (e.g., Braille, large print, audiotape, American 

Sign Language) should contact the responsible Mission Area, agency, or staff office; the USDA TARGET Center at

(202) 720-2600 (voice and TTY); or the Federal Relay Service at (800) 877-8339.

To file a program discrimination complaint, a complainant should complete a Form AD-3027, USDA Program

Discrimination Complaint Form, which can be obtained online at https://www.ocio.usda.gov/document/ad-3027,

from any USDA office, by calling (866) 632-9992, or by writing a letter addressed to USDA. The letter must contain

the complainant’s name, address, telephone number, and a written description of the alleged discriminatory action 

in sufficient detail to inform the Assistant Secretary for Civil Rights (ASCR) about the nature and date of an alleged

civil rights violation. The completed AD-3027 form or letter must be submitted to USDA by:

(1) Mail: U.S. Department of Agriculture Office of (2) Fax: (833) 256-1665 or (202) 690-7442; or

the Assistant Secretary for Civil Rights (3) Email: program.intake@usda.gov

1400 Independence Avenue, SW Washington, D.C.

20250-9410; or

USDA is an equal opportunity provider, employer, and lender.

February 2020