To respond to new food safety problems, including emerging pathogens, the United States is increasingly using risk assessment as a means of quantifying the risks associated with certain foods and certain pathogens. The science of microbial risk assessment is in its infancy, but risk assessment methods are being developed that can be applied to microbial pathogens. As new hazards are identified, they must be addressed through preventive systems from farm to table. But to achieve that success, the United States invested in a comprehensive technical assistance program to help the smaller plants implement their systems. In addition to our regulatory activities within plants, we are encouraging animal producers to take steps to reduce pathogens in animals that will be presented for slaughter and addressing the safety of products once they leave the plant and enter marketing channels.
Consumer education is an integral component of our effort.
Scientific and technological development is critical in enabling countries to address new food safety challenges. The United States encourages industry to innovate to improve food safety by ensuring that our regulations do not impede such progress. But there is a careful balancing act involved. We must embrace new science and technology, but at the same time we must be careful to ensure its safety and effectiveness in order to maintain consumer confidence. And finally, the United States has a long history of transparency and openness.