FDA finalizes food safety guidance for fresh-cut produce

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has finalized new guidance for the preparation and packaging of fresh-cut produce to mitigate foodborne illness risks. The updated recommendations, which are not legally binding, target manufacturers and processors of high-water-content products such as chopped lettuce, sliced cantaloupe, diced onions, and fruit salads. Suggested measures include sanitation controls, supplier verification, refrigeration, use of safe water, antimicrobial wash solutions, and personnel training.

This move comes as the agency and the CDC continue to investigate a significant Cyclospora outbreak linked to iceberg lettuce from Taylor Farms. The outbreak has spread across 15 states, with Michigan reporting the highest number of cases. Acting FDA Commissioner Kyle Diamantas stated that the agency is “very confident that the iceberg lettuce from Central Mexico was the culprit” and noted that all lettuce related to the outbreak was effectively removed from the market following a July 17 recall.

The guidance specifically addresses biological hazards including Salmonella, Cyclospora, E. coli, and Listeria. Processors are now required to assess whether these pathogens pose potential hazards that necessitate preventive measures, including supply-chain controls, as antimicrobial washes may not be sufficient to control certain parasites like Cyclospora.