The National Advisory Committee on Meat and Poultry Inspection (NACMPI) released their report with recommendations for labeling and handling of Not-Ready-to-Eat (NRTE) meat and poultry products. A subcommittee, composed of industry researchers and experts, was asked to consider mandatory labeling features on certain types of NRTE meat and poultry products, such as raw stuffed poultry products and breaded meat products.
The subcommittee recommended that the Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) require statements such as “raw”, “uncooked” or “ready to cook” on the labels of NRTE products to convey that these products are not ready to eat, although they may appear to be. In order to pair clear labeling with safe handling instructions, the subcommittee agreed that FSIS should conduct a focus group of consumers to identify optimal messaging and package design to ensure consumers understand that the products must be cooked before eating.
The group was also asked if FSIS should require that NRTE products bear validated cooking instructions on the package. The subcommittee agreed that validated cooking instructions should be required and should include the method of cooking, the endpoint temperature for safety, and instructions for the endpoint temperature to be measured with a thermometer. The group additionally recommended that the cooking instructions include items such as a disclaimer not to use a microwave and which preparation steps must be followed for food safety.
Recommendations made during NACMPI meetings serve to advise the Secretary of Agriculture on food safety policies that will contribute to USDA regulatory policy development. The report, with additional recommendations made by the subcommittee, is available here.
