WASHINGTON, Dec. 8 (UPI) -- The U.S. Food Safety and Inspection Service says it has created a help desk to assist operators of small meat, poultry and processed egg product facilities.
FSIS officials said the service will address the concerns of operators seeking help with agency requirements. The help desk also will provide assistance to state and local food regulatory agencies in keeping meat, poultry and egg products safe for consumers.
"USDA's Food Safety and Inspection Service is committed to providing assistance to businesses of all sizes that provide American consumers with access to a safe and healthy food supply," said FSIS Deputy Under Secretary for Food Safety Jerold Mande. "The small plant help desk will help the development of small, local producers by offering a one-stop shop for questions about how to make sure their meat, poultry and processed egg products are safe, wholesome and properly labeled."
The FSIS, an agency of the U.S. Department of Agriculture, said more than 90 percent of the 6,000 plants it inspects are small or very small.
Help desk personnel are available 8 a.m.-4 p.m. EST Monday through Friday at 877-374-7435. The FSIS help desk is also available by email at [email protected].
