USDA Food Safety Inspection Services (FSIS) recently issued the first regulatory update of the Egg Products Inspection Act (EPIA) since 1970, called the Egg Products Inspection Regulations (EPIR) which modernizes the industry requirements and FSIS inspection of shell eggs. This landmark update requires development of Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Point (HACCP) Plans and Sanitation Standard Operating Procedures (SSOPs) and includes egg substitutes and freeze-dried egg products.
Top Five Things You Need to Know
Continuous FSIS inspections will be eliminated – with a focused emphasis on “for cause” and unscheduled inspections
Prescriptive HACCP and SSOP Rules are out the window – requiring each shell egg producer is required to write and implement a HACCP Plan and supporting SSOPs, specific to their operations, facilities and equipment.
HACCP and SSOP programs must be supported by monitoring records that include egg traceability.
Importers of shell egg products will see new entry requirements in line with those of meat and poultry.
The written Food Safety program that includes the HACCP plan and supporting SSOPs must include labeling compliance with special handling instructions, meeting applicable FDA regulations.
Importers of shell egg products will see new entry requirements in line with those of meat and poultry.
EAS Consulting Group
Do you need help with your shell egg HACCP and SSOP plan development? Will you be ready for a FSIS unscheduled inspection? Is your labeling compliant with FDA regulations?
Contact EAS Consulting Group to learn more about our capabilities and let us help you ensure compliance with all FSIS and FDA requirements.
Posted in Foods.