Following the tragic listeriosis outbreak linked to Boar’s Head RTE deli meats in 2024, the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety and Inspection Service (USDA-FSIS) has taken significant steps to enhance its oversight and safeguard public health. This incident led to a comprehensive review of processes and the implementation of various improvements.

Protecting Public Health through Strengthened Food Safety Measures

Enhancing FSIS’ Listeria Rule

Starting from January 2025, FSIS will expand Listeria species testing to all relevant samples. Currently, only L. monocytogenes is tested, but adding more species will provide valuable insights into sanitation programs. The agency will draw on the expertise of the National Advisory Committee on Microbiological Criteria for Foods (NACMCF) to guide policy changes. New committee members with Listeria expertise will be recruited to review the regulatory approach. This will lead to more informed and long-term policy adjustments.Furthermore, FSIS laboratories will have a more comprehensive testing regime, which can help identify potential issues early on and ensure the effectiveness of sanitation measures.

Updated Training and Tools to Help Inspectors Recognize and Respond to Systemic Food Safety Issues

FSIS is updating its instructions and training for food safety inspectors. This will enable them to standardize the recognition and highlighting of systemic problems. Field supervisors will regularly review these instructions with inspectors to ensure full understanding and proper application. Inspectors will also receive additional L. monocytogenes control training to enhance their understanding of regulatory requirements and how to verify compliance.In addition, FSIS will conduct food safety assessments at RTE meat and poultry facilities, with a focus on those relying solely on sanitation measures. These assessments will provide valuable information for future policy and process changes. When systemic issues are identified during assessments, field supervisors will conduct in-person follow-up visits to ensure full resolution and may take enforcement action if necessary.

Stricter Oversight of Regulated Establishments and Stronger State Inspection Models

FSIS inspectors will verify specific L. monocytogenes risk factors weekly at RTE facilities. These include physical plant modifications, sanitation problems indicators, and test results. District offices, field supervisors, and inspectors will review and analyze this data to determine if further action is needed, such as a food safety assessment or intensified sampling.FSIS will also clarify state and federal requirements for TA programs through updated agreements and instructions. Specific requirements will be set, including oversight expectations, enforcement of federal laws, comprehensive training for TA inspectors, and enhanced coordination. Designated field and headquarters positions will be assigned to TA oversight, and training requirements and criteria will be clarified.FSIS will revise establishment review alert triggers. By using additional data from the weekly verification of Listeria risk factors, the agency intends to update its algorithm and triggers to better identify high-risk facilities. This will help prioritize resources and ensure timely action.USDA-FSIS has also published several directives and notices to agency personnel related to these changes. The agency emphasizes the need for additional resources to continue protecting the safety of regulated products.