In the Midst of New FDA Proposed Regulations, Washington Warns of Food Safety Cuts

Recently, the FDA proposed two new regulations under the Food Safety Modernization Act (FSMA) and would be a large overhaul of food safety system and impact the entire food manufacturing industry.  According to a Food Manufacturing article, "The primary burden created by these requirements will be, for many manufacturers, merely a concern over adequate documentation.  Large processors likely have GMPs, HACCP plans and the like in place and functioning.  The trick could simply be ensuring that these plans are sufficiently documented according to regulatory standards."

As discussed on previous posts, one way food manufacturers can prepare for these documentation related requirements is by using an industry specific program such as O2 Food ERP software for Sage 500.  This food manufacturing software system has tools in place that help manufacturers manage food safety concerns, including HACCP and lot recalls.

At the same time, the White House released a memo stating, "...one of the consequences of the federal budget cuts, known as sequestration, would be 2,100 fewer food facility inspections by the FDA...[and] cuts are set to take effect on March 1."

It appears as though the regulations are growing and tightening, and the funding is shrinking.  At the end of the day, it looks as though food processors will be responsible for staying in compliance by having the appropriate plans and documentation in place.  For more information on the food and beverage ERP software discussed above, visit www.evs-sw.com.