The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) recently introduced a new webpage to help reduce Salmonella in poultry. The webpage was created as part of an effort by FSIS to reduce Salmonella illnesses by 25 percent nationwide. 

FSIS is continuously gathering the data and information necessary to support future action. The new webpage will offer updated news, information, and resources on Salmonella in poultry as it is collected. Along with the webpage, FSIS opened a dedicated email address for all inquiries related to Salmonella in poultry: salmonella@usda.gov.

The webpage features several key sections:

• Pilot projects: Poultry slaughter and processing establishments are invited to submit proposals for pilot projects that will test different control strategies for Salmonella contamination.
• Scientific input: The National Advisory Committee on Microbiological Criteria For Foods (NACMCF) will provide guidance on microbiological criteria to reduce foodborne illness.
• Salmonella science and research: USDA’s compilation of information presented by research scientists at a roundtable discussion that took place on February 15, 2022. This roundtable centered on the scientific support for various potential components of a revised strategy for Salmonella controls in poultry. 

The webpage also includes a request for proposals to collaborate on two separate risk assessments for Salmonella in chicken and turkey. The risk assessments are meant to scientifically support FSIS as it revises the current framework for controlling Salmonella in poultry. Proposals for the cooperative agreement must be submitted to FSIS by April 15, 2022. More information can be found on the webpage.

Additional resources featured on the webpage include quarterly enforcement reports, food safety assessments tools, and applications for federal grants of inspection.