USDA-FSIS Offers Easier Way to Submit Noncompliance Record Appeals as Part of Small Processors Action Plan
Small and very small establishments regulated by the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety and Inspection Service (USDA-FSIS) can now submit noncompliance record (NR) appeals outside of the Public Health Information System (PHIS) through a new web portal.
Submitters must log in to the new appeal web form through USDA eAuthentication so FSIS can confirm the identity of the submitter. The submitter will select the applicable regulated establishment, then enter the noncompliance number being appealed, reason for appeal, and contact information. Upon submission, the submitter will receive a confirmation email of the appeal, and FSIS will route the appeal to the appropriate FSIS official for consideration and response.
USDA-FSIS Announces Small Processors Action Plan
This resource supports the agency’s Small Processors Action Plan, which is a set of actions announced in June 2026 to support small and very small meat and poultry processing plants through improved service and reduced regulatory burdens. The action plan includes objectives such as:
- Improving customer service and responsiveness: Creating clearer, easier ways for small plants to submit and track appeals and requests; establishing dedicated support to help small businesses navigate processes and get timely responses; and expanding access to assistance for plants with limited technology or connectivity
- Making requirements easier and clearer to navigate: Updating and expanding plain-language guidance by FSIS, tailored to small and very small plants; improving visibility of available support, escalation paths, and points of contact; and launching simpler tools to help plants engage with USDA systems
- Reducing unnecessary burdens while maintaining food safety: Streamlining processes related to FSIS inspection staffing concerns and appeals; improving consistency and clarity across the field through targeted training and guidance; and strengthening coordination with the Small Business Administration to ensure small plants are aware of available resources.
According to USDA-FSIS, small and very small plants make up the majority of federally inspected meat, poultry, and egg establishments.
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