FDA released the seventh and final major FSMA rule today, concerning the sanitary transportation of human and animal food. The proposed rule would establish criteria for sanitary shipping of food including refrigeration, adequate cleaning between loads and proper protection during transportation. The proposed rule would apply to shippers, carriers and receivers who transport food that will be consumed or distributed in the United States. FDA says the rule is intended to ensure that persons engaged in the transportation of food that is at the greatest risk for contamination during transportation follow appropriate sanitary transportation practices.
Grocery Manufacturers Association (GMA) welcomed the proposed rule, saying, "GMA is proud of its work to support FSMA and the leadership role we've played on behalf of industry to educate food and beverage manufacturers on what it will take to comply with the law, not only in the US but along the entire global supply chain."