The U.S. Food and Drug Administration released the sixth rule pertaining to the Food Safety Modernization Act. The proposed rule, "Focused Mitigation Strategies to Protect Food against Intentional Adulteration," would require registered domestic and foreign food facilities to address hazards that may be intentionally introduced by acts of terrorism.
Animal food is one of several exemptions listed by FDA in the proposed rule.
"It is our understanding that under FDA's risk-based approach, animal feed and pet food were given an exemption from this rule because of their significantly reduced risk of causing intentional harm to human health," said Leah Wilkinson, American Feed Industry Association's director of ingredients, pet food and state affairs. "AFIA agrees with FDA's conclusion and will work with our members to provide comments on this proposed rule."
FDA plans to host a public meeting in regards to the rule in College Park, Md., on February 20. Comments on the proposed rule are due March 31.
