In conjunction with the release of the FDA's Draft Industry Guidance for melons, leafy greens and tomatoes last week, United Fresh represented the produce industry during a news conference last Friday at the historic Eastern Market on Capitol Hill. The event was hosted by a panel that included Health and Human Services Secretary Kathleen Sebelius, USDA Secretary Tom Vilsack and FDA Commissioner Margaret Hamburg. Other speakers included consumer advocates and members of the public who expressed their support for enhanced food safety.

"Making prevention a priority is critical to reducing foodborne illness and one of the three food safety principles of President Obama's Food Safety Working Group." said Vilsack. "The [draft guidance documents] will result in safer food in our country, which means healthier children, longer lives and less costly healthcare."

Speaking at the news conference, United Fresh President Tom Stenzel underscored the importance of industry input into the new guidance and the food safety legislation.

"I don't think anyone can overstate the value and importance of industry and government working together on this critical food safety initiative," said Stenzel. "This cooperation has already resulted in significant progress in driving improvements in food safety for produce, and I'm confident this collaborative sprit will continue when the Senate takes up food safety later this year. This effort will yield practical and meaningful safety enhancements to our nation’s food supply."