WASHINGTON, May 3 (UPI) -- The U.S. Food and Drug Administration says it is issuing new guidelines for commercial food transporters to "maximize the safety" of food.
The FDA said the new guidance is designed to reduce the chances of physical, chemical, biological and other risks during the transportation of foods while the agency studies current food safety transportation regulations.
In an advance notice of proposed rulemaking, the federal agency says it's requesting input on writing the new rules from all interested parties, including the food and transportation industries and consumer interest organizations. The new rules will govern sanitary practices by shippers, motor vehicle or rail carriers and others engaged in the transportation of food.
"Our aim is to look at every component of the system to assess hazards, and to take science-based action where appropriate to maximize the safety of our food from farms all the way to consumers' tables," said FDA Associate Commissioner for Food Protection Jeff Farrar. "Although contamination of food product during commercial transport is relatively infrequent, the potential harm can be widespread and serious."
