FSIS Chief Addresses Concerns about Safety of Processed Chicken from China
Source: USDA.gov;posted by Al Almanza, USDA Food Safety and Inspection Service Administrator, on Sept. 24, 2013
On August 30th, [the U.S. Department of Agriculture's (USDA) Food Safety and Inspection Service] (FSIS) announced the results of our verification audit of China’s poultry processing inspection system, which reaffirmed the equivalence of China’s poultry processing system. This determination was made after a long and careful review by our expert auditors to ensure that China’s system for processed poultry meets the United States’ safety standards. FSIS’ core mission is food safety and our staff works hard and diligently to ensure that the U.S. food supply remains safe. Since the announcement of the audit results, our agency has received several inquiries regarding this determination so I want to take the time to explain this process and clarify any misperceptions.