FDA to evaluate food transport

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration has issued an advance notice of proposed rule making concerning food transportation. Interested parties including manufacturers, the transportation industry and consumer interest organizations are invited to submit suggestions to avoid physical, chemical, biological and other risks.

Industry guidelines currently cover safety measures including handling and transport at appropriate temperatures, monitoring for pests and insuring that trailers are sanitary and refrigeration equipment in working condition. It is noted that pallets should be of good quality.

The egg industry transports large quantities of eggs principally using wooden pallets. In Europe all nest run eggs are transported on plastic flats using plastic dividers and pallets which must be decontaminated after use.

It is anticipated that the new regulations may address the issue of unsanitary pallets and plywood dividers which has been shown to be heavily contaminated with spoilage organisms and pathogens.