iFDA announces FSMA funds to support states’ continued implementation of the produce safety rule.
The Food Safety Modernization Act (FSMA) was designed to update and strengthen FDA’s risk-based approach to the oversight of food safety. The produce safety rule– which establishes science-based minimum standards for the safe growing, harvesting, packing and holding of fruits and vegetables grown for human consumption – is a critical part of FSMA.
On July 19, 2017, FDA announced that FDA is awarding $30.9 million in funding to support 43 states in their continued efforts to help implement the produce safety rule. This is the largest allocation of funds to date, made available by the FDA to help state agencies support FSMA produce safety rule implementation and develop state-based produce safety programs. FDA notes that the funding will ensure that awardees have the resources to formulate a multi-year plan to implement a produce safety system and develop and provide education, outreach and technical assistance.
Due to the inherent complexity and breadth of the FSMA requirements, FDA must rely on strong partnerships with state agencies to ensure comprehensive and effective implementation.
