Consumer purchase records were successfully used for hypothesis generation in the outbreak investigation and provided a critical foundation for traceback activities.
FDA notes that, until now, it has conducted post-market reviews on a case-by-case basis, often in response to citizen petitions or new scientific evidence. FDA says the new framework will be more proactive.
New York State Senator Brian Kavanagh, lead Senate sponsor of the legislation, says a key aim of the bill is to address major loopholes in federal food regulation.
EFSA analyzed thousands of samples collected in 2023 from commonly consumed products. Maximum residue levels (MRLs) were exceeded in 2 percent of samples, of which 1 percent were non-compliant after taking into account the measurement uncertainty.
Initially launched in 2024, the investigation was reopened in April 2025. Whole genome sequencing (WGS) analysis confirmed that the strain of Listeria found at Fresh & Ready Foods LLC matches the strain of Listeria causing illnesses in this outbreak.
Announcement comes on heels of April 22 press conference regarding the agency’s focus on phasing out petroleum-based synthetic dyes in the nation’s food supply.
The 2023 annual report highlights a few noteworthy outbreaks: illnesses linked to toxins from morel mushrooms, lead linked to cinnamon in applesauce pouches, and Listeria monocytogenes linked to soft serve ice cream cups.
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