WHITE OAK, MD. - The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) released its New Era of Smarter Food Safety blueprint, which, according to the agency, “keeps pace with a world rapidly changing.” The new approach to food safety leverages technology and other tools to create a safer and more digital, traceable food system. 

The blueprint outlines the approach the FDA will take over the next decade to welcome a new era of food safety. The document includes achievable goals to enhance traceability, improve predictive analytics, respond more rapidly to outbreaks, address new business models, reduce contamination of food, and foster the development of stronger food safety cultures. It also outlines a partnership between the government, industry and public health advocates. 

Arlington, Va.-based FMI – The Food Industry voiced their support of the new food safety plan.  

“The New Era of Smarter Food Safety blueprint provides an innovative approach to food safety, one that recognizes and builds on the progress made in the past but looks toward the processes and tools that will be needed for the future,” said Leslie G. Sarasin, president and chief executive officer of FMI. “On behalf of the retailers, wholesalers, product suppliers and other stakeholders within the FMI membership, I thank FDA for its leadership in designing a plan that creates a more digital, traceable and safer food system. We look forward to working with the agency on the implementation of its Smarter Food Safety plan.” 

Sarasin noted that FMI has continually witnessed how rapidly business models have changed in the food industry and that any new frameworks should be broad and adaptable with evolving practices. She said it’s critical for the FDA’s approach to focus on outcomes; leveraging existing tools; increasing communications with and among stakeholders; accounting for variable resources and abilities; and providing uniformity that amplifies success.