Wildfires in Los Angeles, driven by strong winds and dry conditions, are posing a significant threat to food safety, according to the Department of Agriculture. Smoke from the fires can carry harmful particles and gases over long distances, contaminating food even in areas far from the flames, and the Los Angeles Department of Public Health has advised discarding food exposed to ash or not stored in airtight containers.
The FDA has released a long-term strategy to enhance the resiliency and safety of the US infant formula market, building on an immediate strategy from 2023. The plan addresses issues highlighted during the 2022 formula crisis and prioritizes oversight, contamination prevention and supply chain integrity.
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To prevent allergen-related recalls, manufacturers should conduct thorough allergen risk assessments, ensure precise labeling and maintain rigorous cleaning protocols to prevent cross-contamination, says food safety expert Trevor Craig. Developing a recall plan and regularly practicing it can help manage potential recall events effectively.
The USDA is considering further changes to its Listeria rule and ready-to-eat sampling procedures following a review of a recent outbreak. The review highlights the need for more stringent safety measures to prevent future incidents.
Food safety and regulatory issues in 2025 include the potential impact of bird flu and the "war on packaging" as states implement extended producer responsibility laws, potentially raising food prices and safety concerns, write Peter Coneski and Natalie Rainer of K&L Gates. States are also becoming more active in food regulation, shifting the landscape for manufacturers.
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