Source: http://www.fsis.usda.gov/wps/wcm/connect/fsis-content/rss/policy-pals
Timestamp: 2014-07-29 01:02:26
Document Index: 633186978

Matched Legal Cases: ['art 362', 'art 416', 'art 416', 'art 416', 'art 416', 'art 417', 'art 417', 'art 352', 'art 352', 'art 417']

http://www.fsis.usda.gov/Regulations/Compliance_Assistance/index.asp
The "Policy Pals" job is to remind you of important policies that you may have lost sight of given the press of normal business. en-us
fsis.webmaster@fsis.usda.gov
Fri, 27 May 2011 11:54:13 -0400
http://www.fsis.usda.gov/images/PolicyPal.jpg
PolicyPal logo
Pre-Op Sanitation Verification - Equipment Selection http://www.fsis.usda.gov/wps/portal/fsis/topics/inspection/workforce-training
FSIS Directive 5000.4, Chapter II]]>
Wed, 12 Jun 2013 11:38:18 -0400
F19F5E26-9851-4EE9-B351-4ED2CEA32411
FSIS Occupational Safety and Health Program (OSHP)
http://www.fsis.usda.gov/Regulations_&_Policies/Compliance_Assistance/index.asp#Pals
FSIS Directive 4791.1, Rev. 2, Amend. 2, Part Two, 1.C.2.b, along with the required FSIS forms 4791-23 and 4791-24 which are available on InsideFSIS.]]>
Wed, 05 Jun 2013 06:46:12 -0400
152911FF-52C7-49FE-A65B-AD8579399479
Slaughter or Processing Multiple Species
Slaughter or Processing of Multiple Species in the Same Production Day".]]>
Wed, 29 May 2013 06:44:05 -0400
94310247-3BFD-4634-8124-9BAC711F544C
Show Animal Testing
In-plant Residue Screening-Show Animals".]]>
Wed, 22 May 2013 09:10:14 -0400
CD581734-8318-4C58-80AC-D30B99C49C52
Establishments Receiving FSIS Results
Establishment’s FSIS LEARN Results” for more information.]]>
Wed, 15 May 2013 06:51:42 -0400
3CF4FFCB-867A-486F-A2C5-92AAA5C96D7A
KIS™ Sample Submission
KIS™ testing".]]>
Wed, 08 May 2013 06:45:47 -0400
3DF34D12-42B9-47B0-B7DD-4D34E91D05AF
PHIS “Facility, Construction” Tab
Facility, Construction” tab’ more for information.]]>
Wed, 01 May 2013 10:48:18 -0400
7DD9FC80-6824-4082-B16B-579710484C88
Identified Trends of Noncompliance
Using the PHIS ‘Meeting Agendas’ for discussion notes, inspection program personnel (IPP) are to identify trends of noncompliance for discussion at the weekly meeting. IPP can then use the meeting agenda to create a ‘Memorandum of Interview’ (MOI), as required for the PHIS weekly ‘Meeting with Establishment Management’ task. See the following sections of FSIS PHIS Directive 5000.1, for additional information: Chapter I, Section VII.C
Chapter I, Section VIII Chapter V, Section VII ]]>
Wed, 24 Apr 2013 13:21:25 -0400
95F8852C-9A4B-4EF5-9D0E-F556BC290DFE
Voluntary Inspection of Poultry- 9 CFR 362
9 CFR Part 362 under voluntary inspection will bear the official mark of inspection depicted in 9 CFR 381.96.]]>
Wed, 17 Apr 2013 13:14:46 -0400
2881C633-8B7E-4255-9184-6D4B87E6A1CA
Removal of Beef Spinal Cord as a Specified Risk Material (SRM) at Slaughter Establishments
9 CFR 310.22(a)(1), spinal cord in cattle 30 months and older is one of several inedible tissues designated as a specified risk material (SRM). Per 9 CFR 310.22(c), the spinal cord in cattle 30 months and older must be removed from the carcass at the establishment where the animal was slaughtered. For more information, see FSIS Directive 6100.4.]]>
Wed, 10 Apr 2013 16:09:00 -0400
F1B3A490-D0F6-4F2E-9AA9-7D3DFD970F7C
Noncompliance Record Generated Directed Tasks in PHIS
FSIS PHIS Directive 13,000.1, X.B.1 when an NR is generated in the Public Health Information System (PHIS), it will trigger the scheduling of a follow-up directed task of the same type that generated the NR. The exception would be that an NR based on a positive laboratory test result (e.g., E. coli O157:H7 or other pathogen) would generate follow-up sampling and other tasks. See askFSIS question titled "Noncompliance Records May Generate Directed Tasks in PHIS" for more information. ]]>
Wed, 03 Apr 2013 10:04:48 -0400
B07ABA73-D53B-490D-912A-025835C3D8F2
SSOP Frequencies
9 CFR 416.12(d) refers to how often procedures described in the Sanitation SOP will be performed. This is different from how often the establishment monitors the effective implementation of the Sanitation SOP procedures. This monitoring is required at least once per day (9 CFR 416.13(c)).]]>
Wed, 27 Mar 2013 10:03:31 -0400
BB143F13-AE90-4203-A0B1-ED3B7D2F7D87
Writing Noncompliance Records (NR)
FSIS-NRWRITING-V1, is available for inspection program personnel (IPP) who want to sharpen their NR writing skills.]]>
Wed, 20 Mar 2013 08:43:06 -0400
AEB846D3-C869-46AE-824C-B33909BC9E73
9 CFR 417.5(a)(2) http://www.fsis.usda.gov/Regulations_&_Policies/Compliance_Assistance/index.asp#Pals
9 CFR 417.5(a)(2) requires that establishments maintain HACCP plan decisionmaking documentation for the following: The selection and development of each Critical Control Point and critical limit;
The selection of all monitoring procedures and the frequency of each procedure; The selection of all verification procedures and the frequency of each procedure. ]]>
Wed, 13 Mar 2013 07:10:52 -0400
B8E596FD-D3D1-4BB9-8EE5-3A3E4AEC8C78
9 CFR 304.3 and 381.22
In accordance with 9 CFR 304.3 and 9 CFR 381.22, the conditions required for an establishment to be granted federal inspection include the development of both Sanitation Standard Operation Procedures (9 CFR Part 416) and a validated HACCP plan (9 CFR 417.2 and 9 CFR 417.4). An establishment receives a conditional grant of inspection for a period not to exceed 90 days in order for to validate its HACCP plan.
Wed, 06 Mar 2013 15:28:26 -0500
B05892D8-C059-4036-A39C-F26D7D0D0297
9 CFR 313.2 - Humane Handling
9 CFR 313.2 requires that livestock be handled humanely. While not specifically stated in the regulation, additional measures during hot and humid summer months should be taken. It is especially important when driving animals that livestock not be forced to move faster than a normal walking speed. In addition, special handling procedures may need to be used when moving fatigued and stressed livestock. Please refer to the following askFSIS Q&As for more information: Proper Humane Handling of Slow vs. “US Suspect” Swine FSIS Disposition and Handling of Slow and “US Suspect” Swine ]]>
Wed, 27 Feb 2013 07:38:20 -0500
87D68AA3-FFA6-42F4-8B97-63E183FC7945
Responding to Noncompliance Records (NR)
There is no specified timeframe for responding to an NR. However, the establishment should address product adulteration or the creation of insanitary conditions in a timely manner in order to bring the operation back into compliance. Wed, 20 Feb 2013 08:47:02 -0500
98016581-7722-4BEE-8E60-2E74B76A5AA1
KIS™ Test Instructions
KISTM Test Instructions.]]>
Wed, 06 Feb 2013 10:18:05 -0500
A2D1B631-12C3-435E-9D76-690DC5CAE03E
9 CFR 416.2(g)(3). Access the askFSIS Q & A titled "Water Reuse&nbsp;for the Same Purpose" for additional information. ]]>
Wed, 30 Jan 2013 07:35:47 -0500
24388026-7F21-4B63-A9BE-3836B09231F9
There are two types of retail consumers as addressed in 9 CFR 303.1(d)(2)(vi) and 9 CFR 381.10(d)(2)(vi): &nbsp;household consumers; and other than household consumers (more commonly known as hotels, restaurants, and institutions (HRI)) ]]>
Wed, 23 Jan 2013 09:08:41 -0500
A94ABA29-1250-4026-8EE8-DC2DFD5181B4
Equipment and Utensils Used in Egg Products Plants
9 CFR 590.502 includes the requirements for adequate sanitation, construction and maintenance of equipment and utensils used in egg products plants. The design, materials and construction of equipment and utensils must enable examination, processing of products in a sanitary manner and access to all parts to ensure thorough cleaning and sanitizing. Some specific sanitary design standards are identified in the regulation.]]>
Wed, 16 Jan 2013 09:00:32 -0500
79D8F5EA-5C9B-4934-9CDD-D4F97B249E9E
Bulk Shipment of Eggs
9 CFR 590.410(b)) and received under FSIS inspection. ]]>
Wed, 09 Jan 2013 12:14:37 -0500
A136072F-AB92-4B6B-8B0F-45190E7198BC
Guidelines For Meeting Lethality Performance Standards For Certain Meat And Poultry Products - Appendix A and Appendix B
Appendix’ A and B are sections of the compliance guideline that FSIS issued to assist establishments in meeting the lethality performance standards for the reduction of Salmonella contained in 9 CFR 318.17(a)(1) and 9 CFR 381.150(a)(1) of the meat and poultry inspection regulations. Establishments are not required to utilize these Appendices but may choose to employ these guidelines as their process schedules. FSIS considers these guidelines, if followed precisely, to be validated process schedules. Additional information is available on askFSIS at the links below. Using Appendix A as the Process Schedule supporting a Critical Limit Appendix B: Stabilization Option 2 Rapid Cooling Between 120°F and 80°F ]]>
Wed, 26 Dec 2012 13:47:00 -0500
B0B765F3-0B77-4C84-BB25-29625FBD8456
Custom Exempt Tasks in PHIS - FSIS Directive 5930.1 - Revision 4
FSIS Directive 5930.1 Revision 4 provides the following information, which is to be utilized when Inspection program personnel (IPP) conduct the Custom Exempt Task under PHIS: Verify that custom exempt products and operations do not interfere with inspected products and operations and that the establishment is maintained in a sanitary condition. Verify that custom exempt products are marked "Not for Sale" in accordance to 9 CFR 303.1(a)(2)(iii), 9 CFR 316.16 and 9 CFR 317.16 ]]>
Wed, 19 Dec 2012 12:00:29 -0500
4C5AAB5D-3C64-431F-8E6F-F9783095E445
Verification with One Person Operation" for additional information. ]]>
Wed, 12 Dec 2012 09:16:27 -0500
FFA68AB9-1E82-4AB3-99B9-37ADA68CCA16
step identified in the establishment’s flow chart and hazard analysis, in accordance with 9 CFR 417.2(a)(1) and (a)(2). Biological food safety concerns are inherent in the thawing process. Monitoring product surface temperature will ensure a rise within the pathogen growth range is kept to a minimum. See the Meat and Poultry Hazards and Controls Guide, Page 10 for additional information regarding thawing.]]>
Wed, 05 Dec 2012 09:12:52 -0500
4718038E-DFF5-4906-85A5-46BE943A0715
FSIS PHIS Directive 5000.1 Chapter I, Part VIII and FSIS PHIS Directive 5010.1 Rev 1.]]>
Wed, 28 Nov 2012 15:16:05 -0500
FE70866E-3933-4C09-BCE3-E1FC7DC47E20
HACCP Calibration Record Review
9 CFR 417.4(a)(2)(iii), they need to include their calibration records, as required by 9 CFR 417.5(a)(3). ]]>
Wed, 21 Nov 2012 15:10:23 -0500
852E5EF9-8FE8-42F2-92AC-AEA05BAFE2A8
FSRE Rules of Practice Training Module.]]>
Wed, 14 Nov 2012 15:08:30 -0500
Disposal of Specified Risk Material (SRM)
Specified Risk Material (SRM) is required to be disposed of as condemned material in accordance with 9 CFR 314.1 or 314.3. 9 CFR 314.1 applies to facilities that use tanking 9 CFR 314.3 refers to facilities having no tanking where material is to be destroyed in the presence of an inspector either by incineration or is denatured with an Agency approved denaturant. ]]>
Wed, 07 Nov 2012 15:05:58 -0500
3B7E0C7E-4269-4D8A-92D2-C87CC820B207
9 CFR 310.2, all identification devices which are affixed to the animal are to be retained and identifiable to the carcass until post-mortem examination is complete. For additional information, see the askFSIS Q & A titled Animal Identification and Residue Sampling]]>
Wed, 31 Oct 2012 14:54:36 -0500
F179D1DF-416D-43D6-9B46-EEA30C64F069
Verification Frequencies
9 CFR 417.2(c)(7) and 9 CFR 417.5(a)(2), HACCP plans are required to include the frequency at which the establishment will conduct verification procedures.]]>
Wed, 24 Oct 2012 14:50:59 -0500
DBFF1EED-1786-4057-9A62-B0FB256D0F88
9 CFR 417.5(a)(3), HACCP Recordkeeping
9 CFR 415.5(a)(3)-HACCP Recordkeeping Requirement.]]>
Fri, 19 Oct 2012 14:49:19 -0500
D333CD04-95FB-4E68-BF1D-2C74AF7003CB
Shell Eggs Eligible for Breaking
9 CFR 590.510(c). Shell eggs that are not eligible for breaking are to be segregated from the lot prior to entering the breaking equipment. Only wholesome, clean and sound shell eggs are eligible to be broken for human food. A clean and sound shell egg is free of adhering foreign material however, the shell maybe cracked or broken with the shell membrane still intact preventing the contents of the egg from leaking. ]]>
Wed, 10 Oct 2012 14:45:15 -0500
1F56A3B7-8002-477F-94DB-03E0557C896D
step identified in the establishment’s flow chart and hazard analysis, in accordance with 9 CFR 417.2(a)(1) and (a)(2). Tempering is the initial phase of the thawing process where low temperatures (e.g. 23-28 degrees F) facilitate mechanical chopping or high speed slicing.]]>
Wed, 03 Oct 2012 15:14:54 -0500
DB883B1D-5AD9-4CB7-8493-2671645F203B
9 CFR 416.2(g), Water Re-use
Water reuse is addressed in 9 CFR 416.2(g). Information is available on askFSIS by searching ‘Water reuse’. Search results include, but are not limited to, the posted askFSIS Q & A's below:
Water Reuse Water Reuse - cooling solutions Water Reuse - RTE Products Water Reuse - Measures to reduce contamination ]]>
Wed, 26 Sep 2012 14:36:06 -0500
C79040CC-E124-4D70-A283-67F82310FA78
Instructional Statements as Food Safety Controls
FSIS Directive 10,010.1 and askFSIS Q & A titled Instructional Statements in HACCP System for additional information.]]>
Wed, 19 Sep 2012 15:06:50 -0400
202DDFA5-A0D3-44EC-A3CA-882510662F29
Specified Risk Materials, as defined in 9 CFR 310.22, are identified as materials in cattle 30 months of age and older prohibited for use in human food. Tonsils and the distal ileum of small intestines are specified risk materials in all cattle regardless of age.
Wed, 12 Sep 2012 10:32:26 -0400
795C90AB-2716-4FB3-8BB5-BED388D16CA0
The labels of sausages encased in natural casings made from meat or poultry viscera shall identify the type of meat or poultry from which the casings were derived, if the casings are from a different type of meat or poultry used to make the sausage. See 9 CFR 317.8(b)(37) and Federal Register, August 6, 2001, Vol. 66, No. 151, Pages 40843-40845 for more information. Additional information is available in the following posted askFSIS Q & A’s:
Does the rule on labeling of natural or regenerated collagen sausage casings apply to sausage products that use a co-extrusion technology to form the casing and not stuffed into a casing? If a company uses several species of natural casings, can one label be used to cover all possible casing sources? Does the rule on labeling of natural or regenerated collagen sausage casings apply to products other than sausages? If the type of casing is placed in the ingredient statement, does it have to be in the proper order of predominance? Does the presence of a "collagen" casing on sausage products need to be identified on the labeling if it is derived from a species other than that which is in the product or if the source of the collagen is unknown? &nbsp;]]>
Wed, 05 Sep 2012 10:27:20 -0400
262DE080-37FB-4998-92E6-1F8B0CE64E34
Bob Veal Calves
Veal From Farm to Table”.]]>
Wed, 29 Aug 2012 17:33:58 -0400
D893C6BC-918C-4334-86E1-76D50E82DC35
Official Establishment Schedule of Operations
FSIS Directive 12,600.1, Voluntary Reimbursable Inspection Services.]]>
Wed, 22 Aug 2012 17:32:05 -0400
DF2D9590-6AF9-49BD-A537-4BFBFCF7A512
Multiple Species Slaughter or Processing
Slaughter or Processing of Multiple Species in the Same Production Day" for further information. ]]>
Wed, 15 Aug 2012 17:29:45 -0400
BC98987E-0224-4B7E-ABB7-490D455327CA
“Unofficial” HACCP Records
Unofficial HACCP Records" for more information.]]>
Wed, 08 Aug 2012 17:27:52 -0400
05736F57-7D79-4419-AED3-26C78494A894
Acidified Low Acid Products
Acidified low acid products, as defined by 9 CFR 318.300(b) and 9 CFR 381.300 (b), are a low acid food packed in hermetically sealed containers, where the pH of every component has a value of 4.6 or lower within 24 hours after the thermal process has been completed. The production of this type of product is covered by the canning regulations in 9 CFR Subpart G and Subpart X.
Wed, 01 Aug 2012 17:26:46 -0400
B3FC3653-AE70-4CF2-9FF1-C41EEC238AF2
Writing an NR for Poultry FPS Failures
Finished Product Standards Poultry Testing.]]>
Wed, 25 Jul 2012 17:20:45 -0400
7AE1CCC9-C1F1-43CA-9536-8340D53E54B7
FSIS Global Address Book Contact Information
rDirectory is a web-based application that will allow you access to your personal contact information in Microsoft Outlook’s Global Address Book. FSIS employee can view their email address and edit their personal contact information (i.e., Address, Agency, Program Area, Division/DO, Business Phone, Cell (BlackBerry), and Fax). See Tech Tips # 346 and #388.
Wed, 18 Jul 2012 17:19:00 -0400
CE60B1DF-3BE9-44BF-BDB3-EDD21B6FDB1A
SHI.]]>
Wed, 11 Jul 2012 17:14:40 -0400
C43FD4C0-779D-4935-8C3E-A3274EC0505A
Verifying Importing Country Requirements
FSIS Directive 9000.1, Revision 1 Part VII, B, Inspection Program Personnel (IPP) are to verify the requirements of the importing country have been met prior to signing the application for exports (FSIS Form 9060-6). IPP are to request appropriate documentation from the applicant if they have any reason to question the product's eligibility.]]>
Wed, 04 Jul 2012 17:11:36 -0400
C6370F31-F864-46DB-BA03-76015E29E695
Accessing the CFR and FSIS Issuances On- and Off-line
Code of Federal Regulations (CFR), FSIS Directives, PHIS versions of all FSIS Directives, and FSIS Notices from the FSIS website or locally in the C:\Offline_Issuances folder of their computer. IPP must periodically synchronize their offline issuances using “Synchronize Offline Issuances” in Start/FSIS Applications/Other Tools.]]>
Wed, 04 Jul 2012 17:07:26 -0400
BF55CDE7-6F7B-4EE6-AEED-EF9C3A17D921
FSIS E-mail Address
Most FSIS employees have an email address that is their firstname.lastname@fsis.usda.gov. For example: john.doe@fsis.usda.gov When there is more than one person with the same name in FSIS, their name may have a number after the last name. For example: john.doe9@fsis.usda.gov If you are not sure what your email address is, use rDirectory a web-based application that will allow you access to your personal contact information in Microsoft Outlook’s Global Address Book. Wed, 27 Jun 2012 17:05:16 -0400
5F4528F9-8C5E-49ED-87B2-E5EEC67718B3
Humane Handling – Access to Water, Feed, and Space
FSIS Directive 6900.2. Animals shall have access to water in all holding pens and, if held longer than 24 hours, access to feed. There shall be sufficient room in the holding pen for animals held overnight to lie down. ]]>
Wed, 20 Jun 2012 10:14:52 -0400
6680A2E8-BF90-49A3-84D3-71AF3E480837
Blueprints in Egg Products Plants
Egg products plants are required by 9 CFR 590.146(d) to submit new or revised blueprints to the Policy Development Division for review and approval prior to beginning new construction, making facility changes or modifying or replacing processing equipment.
Wed, 13 Jun 2012 10:12:47 -0400
C44DC4CA-5E70-4A6A-A66E-CF7232041488
Prohibited Movement of Adulterated Raw Beef Products
E. coli O157:H7 may not be shipped to a manufacturer of pet food products. The adulterated product may only be shipped to another FSIS inspected establishment, a renderer, or landfill. For additional information, see askFSIS Q & A titled "Prohibited Movement of Adulterated Raw Beef Product to Pet Food" and FSIS Directive 10,010.1, Chapter III, Section IV]]>
Wed, 06 Jun 2012 08:10:05 -0400
29DC25F4-EA20-477C-9E39-9FA8B584C81E
When an establishment will be conducting operations that are outside the normal days of operation, Inspection program personnel (IPP) will need to designate those day(s) as active within the PHIS system to allow IPP to schedule tasks on days previously designated as inactive.&lt;/description
Wed, 30 May 2012 10:44:31 -0400
4AEA46C9-B4FA-41C3-9228-0D93A712D7F9
FAST or KIS™ Screening Tests
Guidelines for KIS™ Testing" for additional information.]]>
Wed, 23 May 2012 07:39:03 -0400
2C3EA4AB-7F45-431B-964B-FBAD10A45466
http://www.fsis.usda.gov/Regulations/Compliance_Assistance/index.asp#Pals
Sanitation SOP Evaluation.]]>
Wed, 16 May 2012 07:47:07 -0400
A53FBFD3-E9BA-4ABE-903A-9BC70B977738
Traditional Poultry Inspection
Traditional poultry inspection, as identified in 9 CFR 381.76(b)(1), is a procedure by which one FSIS inspector inspects the whole bird and is responsible for the proper disposition of the bird, including any required trimming, before it leaves the inspection station.
Wed, 09 May 2012 06:35:38 -0400
AA45B1A9-7DB0-4FB0-BE1F-5B587E123D23
If the Grant of Inspection is updated (e.g., change of ownership, location, name), the District Office maintains the official “Record Copy” and provides “Other Copies” to the IIC and various program areas. Superseded copies of the Grant can be destroyed by the IIC once the new approved copy of the Grant is received.
For more information, go to Inside FSIS and use the search application to locate the Records Management Handbook. ]]>
Wed, 02 May 2012 08:55:09 -0400
0779E49A-0433-437D-8FB2-6E1033C21EBA
Records Available for Review
Establishment records must be available for FSIS review in accordance with the following criteria: HACCP records- records must be completed at the time the event occurs (9 CFR 417.5(b)) and be available for review upon completion (9 CFR 417.5(f)). FSIS has clarified that under 9 CFR 416.16(a), SSOP records- records are to be completed and available for review by the beginning of the shift, the next time that shift operates). See askFSIS Q & A titled Sanitation Standard Operating Procedures Record. Labels- all labels, including generically approved labels, must be maintained on file at all times when the label is being used (9 CFR 320.1(b)(11) and 9 CFR 381.175(b)(6)) and be available for review (9 CFR 320.4 and 9 CFR 318.178). ]]>
Wed, 25 Apr 2012 10:15:55 -0400
38B85FF6-FF49-4681-835B-391CC753ED26
Information regarding the verification of adequate sanitation, construction, and maintenance of equipment and utensils (9 CFR 416.3, Equipment and Utensils) can be found within the following resources: FSRE Sanitation Performance Standard (SPS), 416.3 FSIS PHIS Directive 5000.1, Chapter II, Part II, X ]]>
Wed, 18 Apr 2012 08:59:14 -0400
DEEB4C11-F504-4C92-BAF6-8DDCEAE54107
SPS Findings During Pre-Op SSOP Verification
http://www.fsis.usda.gov/Regulations_&_Policies/Compliance_Assistance/index.asp#Pal
FSIS PHIS Directive 5000.1 Chapter V for additional information. ]]>
Wed, 11 Apr 2012 07:31:51 -0400
0EB9A0CB-7D46-4642-96C3-67D0A0944E09
A hermetically sealed container is one that is designed to be air tight and is intended to protect the contents against the entry of microorganisms during and after thermal processing, as defined by 9 CFR 318.300(j) and 9 CFR 381.300 (j). Containers of this type may include cans, glass, foil pouches, and high barrier plastics.
Wed, 04 Apr 2012 18:08:01 -0400
C8FB600B-5A38-40DE-9C1F-AC04B5E93AF1
askFSIS Q & A titled "Documentation of SSOP or HACCP Corrective Action".]]>
Wed, 28 Mar 2012 10:04:28 -0400
9CD3115B-39EC-4279-9644-28C1CC405914
Petitioning the FSIS Administrator
9 CFR 392. ]]>
Wed, 21 Mar 2012 08:50:23 -0400
A6A31398-08A1-4CD2-A5D3-68D70C6013D4
Retail Exempt Activities
FSIS Directive 8010.1.]]>
Wed, 14 Mar 2012 06:47:48 -0400
E31E7430-2B9C-4BCA-BF4C-C1A368DC82B2
askFSIS Q & A titled Employee training as preventive measure for additional information.]]>
Wed, 07 Mar 2012 08:20:01 -0400
A3C7DCF6-BA08-44F8-8B59-6D2D94EC9E46
9 CFR 416.2(b)(4)
FSRE Sanitation Performance Standard (SPS) Training, Page 27 for additional information.]]>
Wed, 29 Feb 2012 07:44:54 -0400
D248A8DA-3220-4B16-864B-4B31A3EB63C0
9 CFR 417.4(a)(2)(ii) - Direct Observation. However, 9 CFR 417.5 (a)(3) does require an establishment to document the results of the calibration activity. See askFSIS Q&A titled 9 CFR 417.5(a)(3) - HACCP Recordkeeping Requirements. ]]>
Wed, 22 Feb 2012 07:07:43 -0400
AAD03468-EBB6-4449-A9FF-3CCB84486266
FSIS Form 10,240-1
FSIS PHIS Directive 5300.1.]]>
Wed, 15 Feb 2012 07:15:03 -0400
7D1B73F2-E27B-4229-8B1B-9EE6A513F726
9 CFR 417.7- Verification of HACCP Training
IPP are to perform verification of the training requirement (9 CFR 417.7) to coincide with the verification of the annual reassessment (9 CFR 417.2(d)(iii)). In addition, at a weekly meeting, IPP are to ask about the training received by the individual(s) who reassess or make modifications to the HACCP plan. Additional information regarding HACCP Training is available from&nbsp;the following posted askFSIS Q & A’s; Annual Verification of Sanitation SOP/HA/HACCP HACCP Training Requirements HACCP Training Certificate ]]>
Wed, 08 Feb 2012 09:19:38 -0400
A40A1427-12CB-4DFE-A256-7A3D96600F45
FSIS Directive 6410.1 addresses verification of sanitary dressing in only beef slaughter operations. However, the principles presented in the directive apply to the sanitary dressing of all livestock species. Access the askFSIS Q & A titled "FSIS Directive 6410.1- Sanitary Dressing of Species Other Than Cattle" for additional information.]]>
Wed, 01 Feb 2012 11:05:50 -0400
404C4B80-2393-4D9C-8E6F-9859B87284F2
Unless otherwise indicated, the information in an FSIS Notice expires one year from the date of the issuance. If, after one year, the information in the Notice is still relevant to Inspection Program Personnel (IPP) verification activities, the information will either be reissued in a new Notice or will be incorporated into an FSIS Directive.
Wed, 25 Jan 2012 11:49:02 -0400
8B8BE7D0-C77B-4EBC-8E3E-D5564A9B8FA9
Review of HACCP Plans
FSIS Directive 5000.1, Chapter II and FSIS PHIS Directive 5000.1, Chapter III.]]>
Wed, 18 Jan 2012 12:29:08 -0400
63D3D5D1-D82C-45E4-A3D1-9763BBB850D8
A Memorandum of Interview (MOI) documents the fact that IPP maintain open lines of communication with official establishments and can address a variety of issues. Additional information regarding MOIs can be found on askFSIS: Memorandum of Interview FSIS Directive 5000.2 - Documenting an MOI FSIS Directive 5000.2 - Documenting a Weekly MOI ]]>
Wed, 11 Jan 2012 08:33:32 -0400
D907326C-1EC9-4DF0-BF07-04589844AC27
Canning- Temperature/Time Recording Devices
Canning operations must meet specific regulatory requirements regarding temperature/time recording devices. For example, each thermal processing system shall be equipped with at least one temperature/time recording device to provide a permanent record of temperatures within the thermal processing system. See 9 CFR 318.305(a)(2) and 9 CFR 381.305(a)(2) for additional information. ]]>
Wed, 28 Dec 2011 12:51:14 -0400
032E5442-6BB8-43CE-A6D8-8B690851CC7F
Questions and Answers Regarding Donated Products are available on the FSIS web site and on askFSIS through the following:
Donated Product Donating retail exempt meat product Donating misbranded product Donating experimental product &nbsp;]]>
Tue, 20 Dec 2011 07:02:14 -0400
0107621C-268F-4AC1-8C68-83706ABF55A6
Inedible Egg Products
Shells eggs classified as loss or inedible, or egg products identified as inedible, and determined to be unfit for use as human food are to be placed into containers clearly labeled “inedible”. Inedible products shall be denatured in accordance with 9 CFR 590.504(c).
Wed, 14 Dec 2011 12:18:29 -0400
EA2842A2-661A-46A6-A8C5-01C7F4734969
FSIS Employee Hygiene
FSIS inspection program personnel (IPP) must comply with 9 CFR Part 416.4 as well as 9 CFR Part 416.5 with regard to any food products they handle and food contact surfaces they utilize in the performance of their duties. This includes their sanitary hygienic practices, their equipment (e.g., equipment, thermometers, knives, scabbards) and how they handle edible products. See the FSIS Memorandum, dated October 5, 2001 for additional information.]]>
Wed, 07 Dec 2011 07:54:46 -0400
E8DC6839-584A-45A5-8A3C-5B463D39B0CD
FSIS Directive 1306.6, System and Information Integrity (SI), provides system users information regarding safeguarding information systems and related data. The simplest way system users can ensure compliance with SI policy is to connect their computers to the FSIS network for at least 60 minutes (or longer if necessary) one time per week so that it can be scanned for potential problems and to install information system security patches and software updates. Questions related to System and Information Integrity can be&nbsp;emailed to FSIS_Information_Security@fsis.usda.gov]]>
Wed, 30 Nov 2011 08:46:36 -0400
09190548-D4D2-4C14-B6AD-71464773B3A5
Condemned Egg Products
Shell eggs and egg products that are inspected and determined by FSIS to be unfit for human food are to be condemned in accordance with 9 CFR 590.422.
Wed, 23 Nov 2011 09:10:50 -0400
193E9F53-83BD-47A5-B143-D261351AE6BA
http://www.fsis.usda.gov/Regulations/Compliance_Assistance
FSIS Directive 1306.1, Incident Response (IR), provides system users with procedures to follow in the event of security incidents, theft or loss of IT equipment. FSIS Directive 1306.8, Security Awareness and Training (SAT), addresses the requirement that all employees (i.e., federal, contractor, student and part-time) complete basic Security Awareness Training (SAT) each fiscal year. New employees must complete SAT training prior to obtaining network access. Questions related to Information Security can be submitted to FSIS_Information_Security@fsis.usda.gov. ]]>
Wed, 16 Nov 2011 10:28:44 -0400
9731233B-4BCC-47EA-8AE4-8C848F3DE523
Information regarding labeling policies and labeling requirements is available at the following web pages: Food Standards and Labeling Policy Book Labeling Requirements Guide Labeling Policies Labeling Terms Organic Labeling Child Nutrition (CN) Labeling &nbsp;]]>
Wed, 09 Nov 2011 10:17:48 -0400
A18CEB82-78B5-448E-81D5-47F1BC667CDE
The answers provided in askFSIS are statements of official FSIS Agency policy. There are currently over 1300 policy related Q & A’s that are available for viewing. Each Q & A is designed to address identified policy needs and have gone through a rigorous clearance process prior to being made available to the public and is expected to be converted as soon as practical into permanent policy as part of a new or existing FSIS Directives.&nbsp;Additional information&nbsp;about askFSIS is available from:
FSIS Directive 5620.1, How to Submit a Question in askFSIS Questions Posted on askFSIS &nbsp;]]>
Wed, 02 Nov 2011 08:03:36 -0400
28BF0F43-29FD-4363-90BB-49C6325066BC
Verification of a Food Safety System
Verification of a food safety system requires that inspection program personnel (IPP) evaluate production operations by looking at all aspects of those operations and assessing the interactions between them. IPP accomplish this through observation of the implementation of a variety of plans and procedures (e.g., HACCP plan, Sanitation SOP, prerequisite programs, FSIS and establishment testing results) and through the review of documents associated with those plans and procedures. For additional information, access FSIS PHIS Directive 5000.1, Verifying an Establishment's Food Safety System; Chapter III - HACCP.]]>
Wed, 19 Oct 2011 09:38:53 -0400
C9FDCD51-ABED-4EE9-AE3E-15D2997A46CF
Name and Address on Labels
If the name and address on labeling is not preceded by a phrase such as “Distributed by”, “Manufactured for”, “Packed for”, or a similar phrase, the name and address on the product label must be that of the actual manufacturer, or a “DBA” (doing business as) name that has been granted to the official establishment.
Wed, 12 Oct 2011 08:38:52 -0400
2114E148-5509-4540-A0F1-E1F141879112
The Federal Register is the official daily publication for rules, proposed rules, and notices of Federal agencies and organizations, as well as executive orders and other presidential documents. Federal Register Publications and Related Documents that affect FSIS are available on the FSIS web site.]]>
Wed, 05 Oct 2011 08:44:36 -0400
7311E60F-12CC-435F-9EA1-DE866A8A94AF
Performance Standard- Salmonella and Campylobacter
http://www.fsis.usda.gov/Regulations_&_Policies/Compliance_Assistance/index.asp
Information regarding the new performance standard for Salmonella and Campylobacter in chilled carcasses of young chickens and turkeys can be found in FSIS Notice 31-11. ]]>
Wed, 28 Sep 2011 09:04:43 -0400
CEF049D7-E0F4-46B9-9873-E8EB2D2A49DA
The Generic Labeling regulations in 9 CFR 317.5 and 9 CFR 381.133 allow labels for product that have a regulatory or policy book Standard of Identity (e.g. a hot dog, meatballs or a chicken pot pie) and that do not include any claims, guarantees or foreign language, to be approved generically by the establishment without submission to the Labeling and Program Delivery Division. For more information regarding product Standards of Identity, see 9 CFR 319 and 9 CFR 381.155 through 381.174.]]>
Wed, 21 Sep 2011 08:37:33 -0400
C7E31D05-216B-4A26-9CEB-2657F573C56B
When a label application is submitted for a product with a standard that requires specific spices or flavorings to be in the product, the inclusion of those specific spices or flavorings must be identified on the label application form if not specified on the label. For example, Cajun style requires red, white and black pepper, which can be identified in the ingredients statement as “spices” or “flavorings.” However, to be approved, the label transmittal form must specify that those “spices” or “flavorings” include red, black and white pepper.]]>
Wed, 14 Sep 2011 10:53:47 -0400
5748C056-CE18-4A2E-B498-1D44F908FB52
Sanitation as Part of the Food Safety System
Sanitation is essential to food safety and to the successful implementation of HACCP. Developing Sanitation SOPs can be viewed as the first step to designing an effective food safety system. For more information on sanitation’s role in food safety, see Federal Register Vol. 61, No. 144, July 25, 1996- Pathogen Reduction; Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Point (HACCP) Systems; Final Rule (Page 38829)]]>
Wed, 07 Sep 2011 11:08:56 -0400
4CEA85DD-11F6-420B-B241-19D320F1469D
FSIS Sanitary Practices
FSIS personnel must comply with 9 CFR 416.4 as well as 9 CFR 416.5 while performing their duties. The Code of Federal Regulations makes no distinction between plant employees and FSIS personnel regarding sanitary operations, equipment or hygiene, therefore, IPP are to follow the establishment’s handling procedures in order to prevent contamination of products, equipment or production areas. In addition, IPP must follow any procedures the establishment has set regarding traffic patterns or product flow between rooms and/or processes. As a food safety agency, FSIS personnel must lead by example. For additional information, see the Memorandum, dated 10/05/2001, posted on the FSIS web site, titled Responsibility for FSIS Personnel Concerning Sanitary Operations, Employee Hygiene and Cross Contamination of Products and Processes in Federally Inspected Meat, Poultry and Egg Products Establishments.]]>
Wed, 31 Aug 2011 08:02:24 -0400
10409866-EC6D-46F0-845A-C05ED1166764
Alcoholic Beverages as Ingredients
Alcoholic beverages (e.g., beer, wine and spirits) do not require the sub-listing of ingredients. However, if wine contains sulfites that will be above 10 ppm in the finished product, sulfites must be listed on the label.
Wed, 31 Aug 2011 07:59:16 -0400
F2AD4B4F-9465-4F5C-B083-CDB497FFC148
The establishment can reassess each of its HACCP plans any time during the calendar year in order to meet the annual reassessment requirement of 9 CFR 417.4(a)(3). The establishment could reassess their HACCP plan on January 1, 2010 and not reassess until December 31, 2011 and still be in compliance with the regulation. The reassessment needs only occur once annually unless circumstances change that could affect the decisions made in the HACCP plan.
Wed, 10 Aug 2011 06:27:59 -0400
2063F15E-2924-41E3-8BAE-68C55511E667
In general, the Agency understands that it is not feasible for establishments that slaughter or process food, particularly meat, poultry, and processed egg products, to completely eliminate condensation, odors and vapor. See askFSIS Q&A titled Condensation for further information.
Wed, 03 Aug 2011 09:10:15 -0400
654F0075-FE35-48E3-A49A-B2602277AC4D
FSIS Compliance Guidelines are non-regulatory guidelines developed by FSIS, based on regulatory requirements, Agency policies and public comment. The guidelines are made available to establishment owners to assist them in meeting and maintaining compliance with FSIS policies and regulatory requirements. For the most recent information on compliance guidance, please visit the Compliance Guides Index or the Compliance Assistance page on the FSIS web site.
Wed, 27 Jul 2011 08:23:53 -0400
5DDD2722-3C33-4EF4-8C27-8C6F8E6A7278
9 CFR 416.2(b)
http://www.fsis.usda.gov/Regulations/Compliance_Assistance/index.asp#Paks
When verifying compliance with 9 CFR 416.2(b), Inspection Program Personnel (IPP) should verify that establishment buildings are in good repair, of sufficient size, are manufactured from durable materials and are maintained to prevent the entrance of vermin. See 9 CFR 416.2(b) for additional information. ]]>
Wed, 20 Jul 2011 07:10:05 -0400
C634D9DC-1CCD-4EA4-A25F-8C048683E6E4
A container of product intended for distribution to other than the retail trade may bear one or more official inspection legends (i.e., meat inspection legend, poultry products inspection legend, or exotic animal (triangle) legend). See posted askFSIS Q & A titled "Multiple Legends" for additional information. ]]>
Wed, 13 Jul 2011 15:24:20 -0400
1560F419-869A-44F0-9C85-09675F6BBC1A
Ante Mortem Verification http://www.fsis.usda.gov/Regulations/Compliance_Assistance/index.asp#Pals
When establishments present livestock for ante-mortem inspection on the day of slaughter (9 CFR 307.2(a) and 9 CFR 309.1(a), inspection program personnel (IPP) are to request a document from the establishment (e.g., a pen card or drive sheet) that provides sufficient space for IPP to record the following: the date ante-mortem inspection was performed; the pen/lot number; the number and slaughter class of livestock in the pen/lot that were offered and passed ante-mortem inspection; the time ante-mortem inspection was performed; and the IPP’s signature or initials.
For additional information, see the PolicyPoints presentation titled FSIS Notice 52-09, Ante Mortem Verification of Livestock Offered for Slaughter by the Establishment ]]>
Wed, 06 Jul 2011 06:54:54 -0400
4D4A3681-0EC4-463D-99F4-005B44F31AFF
Information regarding labeling of “immediate containers” is available in posted askFSIS Q & A’s including, but not limited to, the following: What are the definitions of “consumer packaging,” “immediate container,” and “shipping container” in reference to poultry product pack dates? What are the markings required on a shipping container? Does the slaughter date have to be on the immediate container of all poultry? What is the general rule about pack dates on poultry food products produced in a federally inspected facility? ]]>
Wed, 29 Jun 2011 14:56:42 -0400
03F7618A-5A54-40C7-9D54-B6B51B6F0FB9
Egg Products Production Codes http://www.fsis.usda.gov/Regulations/Compliance_Assistance/index.asp#Pals
The lot number or production code number shall be applied to each primary container and each shipping container when egg products are packaged. It must be legible and may be placed either on the label or the principle display panel of the container. For more information see the askFSIS Q & A titled "Egg Products Production Codes".
Wed, 22 Jun 2011 09:46:15 -0400
75C0A7E0-A431-44BA-84A3-56175CC1F524
The “official premises” are the physical and geographic boundaries of the establishment and the limit of inspection program personnel (IPP) inspection responsibilities. See askFSIS Q & A titled "Official Premises" for additional information.
Wed, 15 Jun 2011 12:47:15 -0400
3118D6A1-A417-46AF-8928-C4F6FA267242
FSIS Directive 7000.2 http://www.fsis.usda.gov/Regulations/Compliance_Assistance/index.asp#Pals
Information regarding FSIS verification of the production of experimental and sample products is available in FSIS Directive 7000.2, Experimental and Sample Products Policy.
Tue, 07 Jun 2011 10:43:10 -0400
5F9CF471-D10A-4CEA-A07C-C528C38F332F
FSIS Employee Safety Directives
Information addressing employee safety is available on the web, including, but not limited to:
FSIS Directive 4791.1 Rev. 2, Amend. 2, Basic Occupational Health and Safety Program FSIS Directive 4791.11, Lockout and Tagout Safety Procedures
FSIS Directive 4791.12, Reporting and Correcting Occupational Hazards ]]>
Thu, 02 Jun 2011 08:40:06 -0400
09B07662-2263-4A1E-9989-03F59DB6CCFC
Policy related PowerPoint presentations are currently available to FSIS personnel, and the public, on the FSIS web site. They are designed to promote a uniform understanding of FSIS issuances (e.g., notices and directives). Subjects include, but are not limited to: E. Coli O157:H7 Exemptions HACCP Residue
Sampling Sanitation Standard Operating Procedures Slaughter Inspection • Specified Risk Material ]]>
Fri, 27 May 2011 11:34:23 -0400
0F314A44-BD3A-49D8-871B-C4EE42BE7113
Pest control programs addressed in 9 CFR 416.2(a) are not required by regulation to be written programs, however they must be implemented and maintained in order to prevent and/or eliminate pest harborage and breeding within the limits of the official premises. See askFSIS Q & A titled "9 CFR 416.2(a) - Pest Control Programs" for further information.
Fri, 27 May 2011 11:30:37 -0400
576088C7-069E-4F8E-9490-CFA53826FD9F
Amenability http://www.fsis.usda.gov/Regulations/Compliance_Assistance/index.asp#Pals
The issue of product amenability is addressed in the following askFSIS Q & A’s: How low can the level of meat/poultry be before the product is no longer amenable to U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) jurisdiction (i.e., to the Federal Meat Inspection Act (FMIA) or Poultry Products Inspection Act (PPIA)? Amenability of Domestically Raised Game Birds and Waterfowl What are the labeling requirements for product consisting of primarily game meat, but containing more than three percent raw meat from amenable species?
Amenable Swine ]]>
Fri, 27 May 2011 11:26:27 -0400
A1BA4F37-085D-4CFE-806E-164B75DE8266
FSIS Form 5200-2
The Application for Federal Meat, Poultry, or Import Inspection (FSIS Form 5200-2) needs to be updated whenever there is a change related to the physical location, management personnel, or type of product produced in an official establishment. The Grant of Inspection (FSIS Form 5200-1) will be updated by the District Office based on the information provided on FSIS Form 5200-2. ]]>
Fri, 27 May 2011 11:25:13 -0400
389191CD-2B57-4CCD-950C-0BC5E78C94A7
Chemical sanitizers must be safe and effective when used in accordance with the manufacturer’s directions (i.e., under the conditions of use). Establishments must have documentation to demonstrate this (see 9 CFR 416.4(c)) and this documentation must be available to FSIS upon request.
Fri, 27 May 2011 11:22:23 -0400
3211B3CD-6A96-4CC5-B73D-24A96CD41A29
Verifying Net Weights
FSIS Directive 7000.1, Verification of Non-Food Safety Consumer Protection Regulatory Requirements for additional information regarding verification of net weights. ]]>
Fri, 27 May 2011 11:19:27 -0400
5CE09C1F-F5FA-472C-BC25-58A916B0380A
Poultry Product Wash Procedure
Establishments that implement a poultry product wash procedure to remove digestive tract contents, and that utilize chlorine as a means to render the contaminated poultry product unadulterated, must use chlorine in accordance with 9 CFR 381.91(b)(1) and the guidelines set forth in FSIS Directive 7120.1, Safe and Suitable Ingredients Used in the Production of Meat, Poultry and Egg Products.]]>
Fri, 27 May 2011 11:13:58 -0400
9E9843EA-F351-45D0-8AD9-D29860F0F933
Thawing Product in Water http://www.fsis.usda.gov/Regulations/Compliance_Assistance/index.asp#Pals
When establishments thaw product in water, there is no regulatory requirement that the water must remain flowing. The process of thawing needs to be addressed in the establishment’s hazard analysis and/or HACCP plan, and meet the requirements of 9 CFR 318.5(a)(2) for meat, 9 CFR 381.65(c) for poultry, and 9 CFR 441.10 for single ingredient meat or poultry products.
Fri, 27 May 2011 11:07:46 -0400
88EA9D6A-F0CB-4A7F-A1FE-D54D34432CA7
9 CFR 303.1(a)(2) - Products from Custom Slaughter of Livestock http://www.fsis.usda.gov/Regulations/Compliance_Assistance/index.asp#Pals
As indicated in 9 CFR 303.1(a)(2), meat or meat food products derived from the custom slaughter of livestock can only be used by an owner, household members, non-paying guests, and their employees. For more information, see askFSIS Q&A titled "Custom Slaughter and Charitable Organizations".
Fri, 27 May 2011 11:05:00 -0400
7C2FE77A-05EE-4B42-AB02-955F263E3E6A
9 CFR 417.4(a)(2)(ii) – Direct Observation http://www.fsis.usda.gov/Regulations/Compliance_Assistance/index.asp#Pals
HACCP regulation 9 CFR 417.4(a)(2)(ii) requires that establishments that establishments conduct direct observation of HACCP monitoring activities and corrective actions. The regulation does not require direct observation of other verification activities such as calibration of process monitoring equipment. See askFSIS Titled "9 CFR 417.4(a)(2)(ii)-Direct Observation" for additional information.]]>
Fri, 27 May 2011 11:00:36 -0400
A409F76A-7825-436B-9B3E-9FD491CB4845
When inspection program personnel have questions about maintaining their government office files, they can consult the Records Management Handbook, which can be accessed through the FSIS Intranet.]]>
Fri, 27 May 2011 10:58:57 -0400
C7BACF81-79BE-4F2D-AA63-2B45AF055BDF
askFSIS TimesavingTip http://www.fsis.usda.gov/Regulations/Compliance_Assistance/index.asp#Pals
In order to save time, and in case there is an interruption in the connection to askFSIS while submitting a question, it is helpful to first compose the question in a word document and then after logging into askFSIS, paste the question into the “Question” block.]]>
Fri, 27 May 2011 10:57:12 -0400
47AF35F9-4915-4195-AC0D-54087C1764DB
Well Water Certification
Potable water certification must be assured at least twice yearly, in accordance with 9 CFR 416.2(g)(1), in establishments using private wells for their water supply. See askFSIS Q & A titled "Potable Water Certification" for more information.
Fri, 27 May 2011 10:54:14 -0400
C84D93B3-9556-4720-AD1E-6293D63EAF77
Direct Observation of Corrective Actions
9 CFR 417.4(a)(2)(ii) does not require that establishments have specific procedures and frequencies for direct observation of corrective actions included in the HACCP plan. An establishment cannot predict when a deviation will occur, therefore, they need to directly observe corrective actions frequently enough to verify that these actions are being performed in a manner that meets the applicable regulatory requirements. See FSIS Directive 5000.1, Chapter II, Part VI, C for additional information. ]]>
Fri, 27 May 2011 10:51:07 -0400
193BF570-D4AF-4363-9FC6-2D42F4DD90AC
Collecting RTE Samples
As a rule, IPP are to collect RTE product in its final package for FSIS’s RTE product sampling program. See askFSIS Q & A titled "Collecting a RTE Sample" for more information.]]>
Fri, 27 May 2011 10:49:22 -0400
8E93409D-586F-421C-A9DF-AEF20425678F
Safe Handling Instructions (SHI) http://www.fsis.usda.gov/Regulations/Compliance_Assistance/index.asp#Pals
Safe Handling Instructions (SHI) are addressed in 9 CFR 317.2(l) and 9 CFR 381.125(b). In addition, twenty-five Q & A’s related to SHI are posted on askFSIS and can be accessed by typing “safe handling” into the ‘Search by Keyword’ box on the askFSIS web page.]]>
Fri, 27 May 2011 10:12:22 -0400
4C8F0ACA-94AA-45A2-B678-FE3D991918B5
Collecting Ground Beef Samples
Collecting a Ground Beef Sample" &nbsp;for more information.]]>
Fri, 27 May 2011 10:10:10 -0400
B4A6B03E-8C45-424B-A1E5-B6A9D4D0E3ED
Meat or Poultry Deli
A meat or poultry deli product is defined as: A ready-to-eat meat or poultry product that typically is sliced, either in an official establishment or after distribution from an official establishment, and typically would be assembled in a sandwich for consumption. There are additional requirements for establishments producing deli and hot dog products under Alternative 3 in 9 CFR 430.4(b)(3)(ii). In addition, see the posted askFSIS Q & A’s listed below for more information:
Deli Product Determination
Are items exempt that are tray-packed at a plant versus a supermarket and intended to be sold in the deli department as ready-to-consume? ]]>
Fri, 27 May 2011 10:06:24 -0400
3C3E6002-D42C-4332-AA8B-D6BFF0869285
askFSIS Responses
askFSIS, they can request that the response be provided to other members of their inspection team by simply including a note in the submittal that identifies the names of the people who they would like to receive the response.]]>
Fri, 27 May 2011 10:05:01 -0400
FAB2901A-4372-46B8-BEE9-AB40CEDED278
9 CFR 317.24(b) and 381.144(b)]]>
Fri, 27 May 2011 10:00:01 -0400
CE399AA0-4933-4BC2-8265-4B05A728BB90
askFSIS Password http://www.fsis.usda.gov/Regulations/Compliance_Assistance/index.asp#Pals
If you have forgotten your log-in password:
Go&nbsp;to the “My Questions” tab at askFSIS Access “Go To Account Assistance” on the login screen, and then Access&nbsp;“Retrieve Your Username”. A “username” will be sent to you via e-mail. There will be a link in the e-mail you receive to a webpage where you can reset your password. Either copy/paste or type the “username” as received into the “Reset your password” block.]]>
Fri, 27 May 2011 09:54:56 -0400
F443AF11-2FFD-48A5-8740-EAEFC395220C
Inedible Containers http://www.fsis.usda.gov/Regulations/Compliance_Assistance/index.asp#Pals
Inedible containers are addressed in 9 CFR 416.3(c) and must not be used for storing any edible product. They must bear conspicuous and distinctive marking to identify permitted uses. See the askFSIS Q & A’s below for additional information regarding inedible containers:
Inedible container ]]>
Fri, 27 May 2011 09:49:56 -0400
6873F32E-54B8-46A3-8D16-0A4CD2025FEF
Dual Inspection Legends
Policy Memo 075 “Dual Inspection Legends on Product Containers” ]]>
Fri, 27 May 2011 09:48:06 -0400
CBA6AAED-BDC6-4D1C-94AD-52A2F51F26BF
Labeling Domestic Shipping Containers
9 CFR 316.13 and 9 CFR 381.127, a shipping container for products sold in domestic commerce that holds fully labeled packaged products is only required to include the inspection legend and establishment number. Additionally, a handling statement is required on shippers that contain perishable products. All other labeling features are optional. For more information see askFSIS Q & A titled "What are the markings required on a shipping container?"]]>
Fri, 27 May 2011 09:41:01 -0400
C94B8071-92EF-4105-9409-7658ECA5955D
9 CFR 442.4, all scales used to weight meat or poultry food products are to be tested for accuracy at least once per calendar year. See askFSIS Q & A titled New Net Weight (04B03) Regulations for additional information regarding scales.]]>
Fri, 27 May 2011 09:33:49 -0400
2F5795D2-0C11-48A1-A646-7F359E29E325
Inspection Legend Size and Color
9 CFR 312.2(b)(1))&nbsp;or 9 CFR 381.96 in colors and sizing that are prominent and conspicuous.]]>
Fri, 27 May 2011 08:41:21 -0400
89F8AC1C-427C-4C8E-9F92-748796895CA0
SSOP Preventative Measures http://www.fsis.usda.gov/Regulations/Compliance_Assistance/index.asp#Pals
Sanitation Standard Operating Procedures Preventive Measures.]]>
Tue, 03 May 2011 14:28:16 -0400
E3B5B9B2-6A8A-4849-B136-35DAF7819580
Labeling Approval http://www.fsis.usda.gov/Regulations/Compliance_Assistance/index.asp#Pals
9 CFR 317.4 and 9 CFR 317.5(b)(9) and 9 CFR 381.132 and 9 CFR 381.133(b)(9). The Labeling and Program Delivery Division (LPDD) only evaluates sketch applications and temporary applications for compliance with applicable regulations and policies. It is the company’s responsibility to prepare final labeling in accordance with applicable regulations and policies, and to create and maintain records of final labeling, otherwise known as generically approved labeling.]]>
Tue, 03 May 2011 14:20:49 -0400
6317ACDC-E101-4F6D-BC25-101395C60320
Pre-shipment Review http://www.fsis.usda.gov/Regulations/Compliance_Assistance/index.asp#Pals
Pre-shipment Review]]>
Tue, 03 May 2011 14:19:05 -0400
48B35856-7D91-45FF-BB00-72F5932948BD
Labeling Cured Products http://www.fsis.usda.gov/Regulations/Compliance_Assistance/index.asp#Pals
On cured products, a “cured with” statement may be used in place of an “ingredients statement.” The “cured with” statement should not include the meat or poultry component because they will be clearly identified in the product name.
Tue, 03 May 2011 14:17:53 -0400
0454F61F-34BC-4C36-83AE-354422DDDFC2
Personal Protection Equipment http://www.fsis.usda.gov/Regulations/Compliance_Assistance/index.asp#Pals
FSIS Directive 4791.1, Basic Occupational Safety and Health Program, posted on Inside FSIS.]]>
Wed, 27 Apr 2011 13:49:11 -0400
A4D84283-30AB-4FB4-B148-7B75F61D92AB
Hand Dryers http://www.fsis.usda.gov/Regulations/Compliance_Assistance/index.asp#Pals
Sinks and Paper Towels".]]>
Wed, 27 Apr 2011 13:47:31 -0400
A2E6A986-1110-426C-800D-D2F8EF0D7CF2
US Reject/Retain Tag Removal http://www.fsis.usda.gov/Regulations/Compliance_Assistance/index.asp#Pals
FSIS Directive 5000.1, Rules of Practice, Part II, F. IPP are not to document a Noncompliance Record (NR). Due to the serious nature of the violation, the District Manager (DM), or a designee, will decide if the violation requires initiation of suspension under 9 CFR 500.3(a)(5).]]>
Wed, 27 Apr 2011 13:44:52 -0400
EF94BE09-7732-4C98-8E56-C116B3C510DD
Potability Certification for Ice http://www.fsis.usda.gov/Regulations/Compliance_Assistance/index.asp#Pals
Potable Water Certification".]]>
Wed, 27 Apr 2011 13:42:52 -0400
00F5C682-AC37-4668-83E8-60505DB0091F
Closing a Noncompliance Record (NR)
FSIS Directive 5000.1, Chapter IV, Enforcement]]>
Wed, 27 Apr 2011 13:41:09 -0400
AC470869-7F78-4BD5-B9CB-05D429743A3B
HACCP Records- Information in askFSIS http://www.fsis.usda.gov/Regulations/Compliance_Assistance/index.asp#Pals
Policies regarding HACCP recordkeeping can be found in askFSIS . See the following Q & A’s for some of the available information: HACCP Recordkeeping
Verification HACCP record requirements HACCP Records HACCP- Computer Records What are Pre-shipment Review Records HACCP - Prerequisite Program Records HACCP- Monitoring Records ]]>
Wed, 27 Apr 2011 13:35:43 -0400
C6954043-664F-4FB0-A647-2EC6644A3F59
Trans Fat Labeling http://www.fsis.usda.gov/Regulations/Compliance_Assistance/index.asp#Pals
Must all Labels Contain Trans Fat Labeling?"]]>
Wed, 27 Apr 2011 13:33:51 -0400
9BFDF358-B9E8-44BA-93A6-5331DFFD38B4
Direct Observation of HACCP Corrective Actions http://www.fsis.usda.gov/Regulations/Compliance_Assistance/index.asp#Pals
9 CFR 417.4(a)(2)(ii), that demonstrate that when corrective actions are implemented, as per 9 CFR 417.3 and the HACCP plan [9 CFR 417.2(c)(5)], they are carried out by the responsible plant employee. See FSIS Directive 5000.1, Chapter II, Part VI, B for more information.]]>
Wed, 27 Apr 2011 13:29:36 -0400
3734B541-8C17-4A99-9F57-972573A9A02F
Associating HACCP 02 Procedures http://www.fsis.usda.gov/Regulations/Compliance_Assistance/index.asp#Pals
If IPP document a noncompliance report (NR) when performing a HACCP 01 procedure, they are to perform a HACCP 02 procedure as indicated in FSIS Directive 5000.1, Verifying an Establishment's Food Safety System. Upon completion of the 02 procedure, it must be associated in PBIS with the NR that prompted the performance of the 02 procedure. See the PBIS Users Guide for further information.]]>
Wed, 27 Apr 2011 13:27:42 -0400
5D50BB13-C3F5-4D08-A744-3A76FDDE15A4
Linking Noncompliance Records http://www.fsis.usda.gov/Regulations/Compliance_Assistance/index.asp#Pals
Noncompliance records (NR) linkage for more information.]]>
Wed, 27 Apr 2011 12:47:37 -0400
EC346B92-85DA-4953-A9A0-B5605D86D87F
Availability of SSOP Records
Sanitation Standard Operating Procedures Record for more information.]]>
Wed, 27 Apr 2011 12:44:06 -0400
6E9717E1-5502-4478-82B5-77A0106AE06B
Operating Without Inspection Coverage http://www.fsis.usda.gov/Regulations/Compliance_Assistance/index.asp#Pals
FSIS Directives 12700.1, Rev.1.]]>
Wed, 27 Apr 2011 12:41:32 -0400
2CDE3E3D-28BF-4B98-B591-706AE1E36CF0
Labeling Allergens http://www.fsis.usda.gov/Regulations/Compliance_Assistance/index.asp#Pals
Allergen Statement on Labels"]]>
Wed, 27 Apr 2011 12:40:03 -0400
BB071CFC-48EE-4800-9F02-7D042D176674
Pass Through or Box-In-Box Out http://www.fsis.usda.gov/Regulations/Compliance_Assistance/index.asp#Pals
When an establishment receives product that is to be stored in the official establishment and then distributed without opening the container, the product is considered “pass-through” or “box-in/box-out” product.
Wed, 27 Apr 2011 12:39:05 -0400
AE8D4BFB-1F5D-4E84-B1BB-700B44DE72E6
Collection Timeframe http://www.fsis.usda.gov/Regulations/Compliance_Assistance/index.asp#Pals
When Block 4 of the FSIS directed sample request form has a time specified for collection of a sample, the “within” date means to collect the sample on, or after the specified time frame, not before.
Wed, 27 Apr 2011 12:37:29 -0400
DEBD946D-DEBF-4556-BE6E-243D6D0761CF
Form PY-200, Egg Products Inspection and Grading Certificate http://www.fsis.usda.gov/Regulations/Compliance_Assistance/index.asp#Pals
Egg products shipped by tanker between official egg products plant are accompanied by a PY-200 “Egg Products Inspection and Grading Certificate”. IPP at the shipping plant affix USDA seals to the tanker and record the seal numbers, time and date of examination and product temperature on the PY-200. IPP at the receiving plant verify USDA seals are intact and the numbers correlate. They verify the temperature and organoleptic condition of the product and record the information, as well as the time and date, on the PY-200. A copy of the completed form is sent back to IPP at the originating plant.
Wed, 27 Apr 2011 12:36:10 -0400
20266DDE-9A5C-45AF-98CD-6396BA3485BB
GAD Process http://www.fsis.usda.gov/Regulations/Compliance_Assistance/index.asp#Pals
When evaluating conditions observed in an establishment , IPP are to use the GAD process to: Gather information Assess that information • Determine if regulatory noncompliance exists See FSIS Directive 5000.1, Verifying an Establishment's Food Safety System and Food Safety Regulatory Essentials (FSRE) Training materials for further information. ]]>
Wed, 27 Apr 2011 12:04:44 -0400
285FF3B8-D6E8-4AA1-8523-32011B8BEF60
Plant Size http://www.fsis.usda.gov/Regulations/Compliance_Assistance/index.asp#Pals
FSIS’s designation of plant size are as follows: Very Small Plant: Less than 10 employees, or less than $2.5 million in annual sales Small Plant: 10-499 employees Large Plant: More than 500 employees ]]>
Wed, 27 Apr 2011 12:02:47 -0400
45BB5665-BF00-4684-AACF-74D572A55D1E
Badges http://www.fsis.usda.gov/Regulations/Compliance_Assistance/index.asp#Pals
9 CFR 306.3 and 9 CFR 381.33, when performing official duties, Inspection Program Personnel (IPP) are to use their official numbered badge as identification for admittance to federally inspected establishments.]]>
Wed, 27 Apr 2011 11:58:56 -0400
C7B17B70-117F-4A1C-A1C6-F3B57A28FD04
Custom Exempt Reviews http://www.fsis.usda.gov/Regulations/Compliance_Assistance/index.asp#Pals
FSIS Directive 5930.1 and are to document the results, on FSIS Form 5930-1.]]>
Wed, 27 Apr 2011 11:53:23 -0400
8D0F75D3-DA49-4337-9090-9B61EAB43414
Shipping Samples http://www.fsis.usda.gov/Regulations/Compliance_Assistance/index.asp#Pals
FSIS Directive10,010.1, FSIS Directive 10,230.4, FSIS Directive 10,230.5 and FSIS Directive 10,300.1.]]>
Wed, 27 Apr 2011 11:39:55 -0400
1E6CA3A4-D417-44EE-B719-8808E944E386
HACCP and SSOP Records http://www.fsis.usda.gov/Regulations/Compliance_Assistance/index.asp#Pals
9 CFR 416.16(a) and 9 CFR 417.5(a) only require that the records be created and authenticated and do not prescribe how that will be accomplished.]]>
Wed, 27 Apr 2011 11:31:18 -0400
0F531FCC-D186-4D38-8CFE-3B7A9D68CC43
9 CFR 416.15(b) http://www.fsis.usda.gov/Regulations/Compliance_Assistance/index.asp#Pals
9 CFR 416.15(b) only apply to Sanitation SOP (SSOP) noncompliances, identified by either the establishment or FSIS, that demonstrate that the implementation of the SSOP has failed to prevent the contamination or adulteration of product. They do not apply to the Sanitation Performance Standards (SPS) 06D01 noncompliances addressed under 9 CFR 416.1 through 416.5.]]>
Wed, 27 Apr 2011 10:12:23 -0400
81CFB320-1898-4F57-ADEE-2BBB6E2E4D1E
Inspection Personnel Hygiene http://www.fsis.usda.gov/Regulations/Compliance_Assistance/index.asp#Pals
Inspectors Following Plant Employee Hygiene Practices]]>
Wed, 27 Apr 2011 10:08:09 -0400
7649EB83-F997-4B85-9FD1-ABAA7868DCC3
Backflow Devices http://www.fsis.usda.gov/Regulations/Compliance_Assistance/index.asp#Pals
9 CFR 416.2(e)(5) requires that establishments prevent conditions where backflow and cross connection could occur between sewage lines and lines that carry potable water used for product manufacturing. The regulation does not require annual certification of backflow devices. ]]>
Wed, 27 Apr 2011 10:05:45 -0400
F9DC73BF-1603-469E-8115-FB6544F64436
Establishment Controls http://www.fsis.usda.gov/Regulations/Compliance_Assistance/index.asp#Pals
9 CFR Part 416 do not require that the establishment control areas or equipment with a company tag when they are found to be unacceptable during their Sanitation SOP monitoring. For more information see posted askFSIS Q & A titled Establishment Controls.]]>
Wed, 27 Apr 2011 10:01:18 -0400
D5143A8A-6FF4-40EF-8F1B-481C74EAD1A8
The Regulations in 9 CFR Part 417 http://www.fsis.usda.gov/Regulations/Compliance_Assistance/index.asp#Pals
9 CFR Part 417 do not require annual calibration of electronic thermocouples. Process monitoring equipment (for example, electronic thermocouples) are to be calibrated at the frequency identified by the establishment in their HACCP plan. That frequency can be based on the recommendations of the equipment manufacturer.]]>
Wed, 27 Apr 2011 09:58:54 -0400
99886D59-2B76-4F7F-9983-A806C57CA961
Federal Meat Inspection Act (FMIA), Poultry Products Inspection Act (PPIA), and Egg Products Inspection Act (EPIA) establish the legal requirements for meat, poultry, and egg products inspection and charge the Secretary of Agriculture with establishing regulations to ensure that those legal requirements are met. The Acts provide the authority, through the Secretary of Agriculture, for the Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) to regulate the production of meat, poultry and egg products in the United States and its territories. ]]>
Wed, 27 Apr 2011 09:53:53 -0400
559529F0-803B-412B-9F7B-673937893428
The Regulations in 9 CFR 300-599
9 CFR 300-592 do not require establishments that produce raw beef products to sample the finished product for E.coli O157:H7. The regulation in 9 CFR 417.2(c)(7) requires the establishment have verification procedures, which could include sampling, as part of the food safety system.]]>
Wed, 27 Apr 2011 09:48:51 -0400
EACFE388-1D5C-4121-90D2-05077EF602C9
Voluntary Inspection of Non-amenable Species http://www.fsis.usda.gov/regulations/Compliance_Assistance/index.asp#Pals
9 CFR Part 352, Exotic Animals and Horses; Voluntary Inspection, is conducted under the applicable provisions of the Agricultural Marketing Act (AMA) of 1946, as amended. 9 CFR Part 352 does not reference 9 CFR Part 417, which sets out the requirement for HACCP plans. Therefore the exotic animal establishments are not required to develop and implement a HACCP plan. ]]>
Wed, 27 Apr 2011 09:45:18 -0400
AD7A470D-6A4E-4252-9A8A-F05F81B84585
Noncompliance Record http://www.fsis.usda.gov/regulations/Compliance_Assistance/index.asp#Pals
This documentation serves as written notification that your failure to comply with regulatory requirement(s ) could result in additional regulatory or administrative action” in Block 10/Description of Noncompliance on every Noncompliance Record (NR) completed. The statement is pre-printed on the NR and as a result, provides the establishment adequate notification of the potential of further enforcement actions (i.e. due process).]]>
Wed, 27 Apr 2011 09:43:34 -0400
359B2737-F111-4A4B-850C-2675315435B1
9 CFR 416.2(h)(2) http://www.fsis.usda.gov/Regulations/Compliance_Assistance/index.asp#Pals
9 CFR 416.2(h)(2) states that paper towels are to be available, however FSIS allows the use of hot air hand dryers in lieu of paper towels. IPP will verify that the use of the dryers does not does not result in an insanitary condition or lead to contamination or adulteration of product.]]>
Wed, 27 Apr 2011 09:40:08 -0400
BDD6C6FA-A79B-4F2F-8C4E-46DFB477D8E7
FSIS Directives and Notices http://www.fsis.usda.gov/Regulations/Compliance_Assistance/index.asp#Pals
FSIS Directives and Notices are internal Agency documents that do not have the force and effect of the regulations contained in 9 CFR 300-599.
FSIS Notices provide official instructions to Agency personnel on how to carry out their functions and are generally more narrowly focused than a directive. The Notice either expires after one year, is extended for another year, or expires because it has been incorporated into a broader-based directive. FSIS Directives&nbsp;are like Notices except that they generally are more broadly focused on a policy and remain in effect until revised or rescinded. ]]>
Wed, 27 Apr 2011 09:33:13 -0400
4ECD96CF-FF04-4586-B76A-3158759AA51E
Contacting one of the Sampling Supplies mailboxes http://www.fsis.usda.gov/Regulations/Compliance_Assistance/index.asp#Pals
When sampling supplies are needed for directed sampling, supplies can be obtained by contacting one of the Sampling Supplies mailboxes in Outlook: Sampling Supplies: Eastern Lab Sampling Supplies: Midwestern Lab Sampling Supplies: Western Lab ]]>
Wed, 27 Apr 2011 09:29:30 -0400
75DCB87B-A008-4E06-B847-EDBEC09043A7
FSIS Directive 10,010.1 Part VI. D. 2 http://www.fsis.usda.gov/Regulations/Compliance_Assistance/index.asp#Pals
FSIS Directive 10,010.1 Part VI. D. 2, “Clean-up to clean-up” alone will not be a supportable basis for distinguishing one portion of production from another portion of production especially when source materials used in the production day are used over multiple days. The establishment will need to be able to demonstrate that each portion of the production is microbiologically independent of the other. ]]>
Tue, 29 Mar 2011 13:01:36 -0400
84FA8542-FE33-4F77-99CD-ADDC979EEDC0
9 CFR 417.2 identifies the HACCP plan and the hazard analysis as separate documents, each with separate regulatory requirements. While the HACCP plan and hazard analysis are separate regulatory requirements, the hazard analysis is fundamental to the development of a HACCP plan and provides the documented rationale for identifying the relevant food safety hazards and for why they are addressed as they are in the HACCP plan. An establishment cannot develop an effective HACCP plan without first having conducted a thorough hazard analysis. ]]>
Tue, 29 Mar 2011 12:57:45 -0400
BBEEC748-E49F-4A6F-B71A-ED181D45CB9E