Shawn K. Stevens

Although FSIS regulations have not changed in any sweeping way, many processors feel the practical microbial standard they are held to has intensified.

While a single NR rarely triggers significant enforcement action, a series of unchallenged NRs can quietly build a regulatory record that supports more serious enforcement.

Because FSIS maintains primary jurisdiction over meat and poultry product labeling, inserting unapproved language could create federal enforcement exposure.

Undeclared allergens account for the most USDA-regulated food recalls in 2025.

Many companies discover during a recall that they may have empowered individuals to stop production in theory, but not in practice.

The industry’s approach to environmental monitoring may need recalibration.

Skilled workers leveraging AI and robotics efficiencies have the potential to make processing faster and smarter.

Food safety efforts must foster a company-wide culture that includes allergen awareness.

Plaintiffs’ firms are filing no injury class actions, in which the named plaintiffs allege economic harm – such as overpayment for an “unsafe” product.

 It may be tempting for processors to ‘set it and forget it’ – but food safety will continue to require constant human oversight.