After nearly a decade of congressional debates, regulatory wrangling, and implementation delays, the deadline for compliance of the Food Safety Modernization Act (FSMA) is now approaching. Thanks to organizations (like FTCLDF!) working for small farmers, artisan producers, and local food consumers, most small-scale producers are exempt from…
food safety
The Devil is Always in the Details: A Member’s Question
Understanding FSIS compliance is a challenging component of farming, and oftentimes can be confusing. Recently, an FTCLDF member had a question regarding the 20,000 exemption for poultry. Dr. Fisher provided a thoughtful, thorough response, and we thought it would be helpful….
Understanding FSIS Language
Fall 1979. I received the book list for my first semester classes in veterinary college. Top of the list: Dorland’s Illustrated Medical Dictionary. That first year, I opened this book more than any other. Regulatory agencies, like medicine, have their own language. Unless you understand that language, you do not know what you are talking….
The Rules of the Game
We are pleased to announce that Dr. Michael Fisher joins the FTCLDF website as a monthly contributor. Dr. Fisher is a retired United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) Food Safety and Inspection Services (FSIS) veterinarian, bringing decades of experience enforcing FSIS regulations during the slaughter and processing of animals for which the USDA…
Obtaining Raw Milk in Washington, D.C.
In some states, it is especially difficult for residents to legally obtain fresh raw milk. Here is FTCLDF supporter Julia Strzeszkowski’s story about obtaining raw milk in our nation’s capital and why she went through the hassle…