The FDA has awarded $30.9 million to 43 states to support multiyear plans for producing safety systems, education, outreach and technical assistance to prevent foodborne illnesses.
The funding provided to states that support the Food Safety Modernization Act (FSMA) will also highlight various farming operations and foster programs that will promote the state-specific needs of farming communities.
The organization reports that 3,000 American deaths and additional hospitalizations and illnesses are a result of foodborne illnesses annually, despite the current safety of food supplies.
The FSMA ensures that minimum standards supported by science are implemented for safe growing, harvesting, packing and holding of fruits and vegetables for human consumption.
The FDA commissioner stated that the allocation of funds, which is the largest in FDA history, will help to renovate and reinforce the organization’s risk-based approach to the oversight of food safety through the FSMA.