The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety and Inspection Service (USDA-FSIS) has released its Annual Plan for Fiscal Year 2025, outlining key initiatives designed to bolster public health, enhance inspection systems, and optimize operational efficiency. The plan reflects FSIS’s unwavering commitment to preventing foodborne illnesses, advancing scientific approaches, and achieving excellence in its operations.
A critical focus of the plan is reducing human cases of salmonellosis linked to poultry consumption. Building on its determination to classify Salmonella as an adulterant in not-ready-to-eat breaded and stuffed chicken products, FSIS will implement verification measures to ensure compliance with these new standards. By May 1, the agency plans to enforce testing and verification activities for such products, while continuing to refine its Salmonella regulatory framework through data analysis and research.
FSIS also emphasizes ensuring that food labels are truthful and transparent. Verification efforts will target U.S.-origin claims, evaluate safe handling instructions, and finalize labeling standards for cell-cultured meat and poultry. These initiatives aim to uphold consumer trust and align with emerging food technologies.
Recognizing the importance of effective communication, FSIS is prioritizing outreach to stakeholders, including underserved communities and Tribal organizations. Through collaboration with public health partners and targeted programs, the agency seeks to enhance understanding and compliance across diverse audiences. It will also continue supporting state-level inspection programs and cooperative initiatives to ensure consistent regulatory standards nationwide.
Scientific innovation remains central to FSIS’s strategy, with plans to develop and validate laboratory methods for detecting pathogens like Shiga toxin-producing Escherichia coli based on virulence. Enhancing the Accredited Laboratory Program and refining risk-based sampling strategies are additional measures to ensure that FSIS policies remain aligned with the latest scientific advancements.
Leveraging data-driven insights, FSIS intends to optimize its inspection processes and outreach efforts. Feedback from the 2024 Small and Very Small Establishment survey will guide improvements in regulatory compliance support and tailored communication for these establishments.
To achieve operational excellence, FSIS is investing in its workforce through employee recognition, professional development, and recruitment initiatives. These efforts aim to foster a skilled, motivated workforce dedicated to advancing the agency’s public health mission.
With these initiatives, USDA-FSIS reaffirms its dedication to safeguarding public health and ensuring the integrity of the nation’s food supply.
