Compliance phase-in begins for FDA food transport rule

New Food and Drug Administration rules intended to ensure that food remains safe to eat during transportation took effect April 6 for carriers with more than $27.5 million in annual revenue and for shippers that have 500 or more employees. Beginning April 6, 2018, all carriers with more than $500,000 in annual rule will be subject to the rule. The rule addresses design and maintenance of equipment; operational practices; temperature control; training; and record keeping. In general, the rule applies to food that must be temperature controlled to remain safe and shelf-ready food (produce, for example) not fully enclosed in a container during transportation. For information, visit https://www.fda.gov/Food/GuidanceRegulation/FSMA/ucm383763.htm.