FDA Launches New Web Resource on Sampling

In November, the U.S. FDA announced a new web resource to share more information about its sampling programs for food safety and posted new information on a more robust surveillance sampling approach under development. In addition, the agency plans to sample and test cucumbers and hot peppers under this program in fiscal year 2016. The FDA will publish information regarding test results on the web, including total number of samples collected/tested, and collection date, sample type, and pathogen detected for positive samples. The agency began developing a new surveillance sampling approach in 2014. During the first year, the FDA focused on sprouts, whole fresh avocados, and raw milk cheese. The FDA will release data on the recently completed surveillance sampling in near the future.