What was expected to be swift action by the House on the Food Safety Enhancement Act of 2009 took a short break last week as additional congressional agenda items took center stage prior to Congress' July Fourth district work period. It is expected that the full House will consider this legislation during July.

"We expect the House to consider this food safety bill shortly and then action and attention will shift from the House to the Senate," said Robert Guenther, senior vice president for public policy at United Fresh.  "This continues to be an important time to let your elected leaders know how their actions will affect the ability of the produce industry to deliver healthy, safe and affordable produce to every congressional district across the country."

Meanwhile, a food industry briefing was held last week in the Senate that included a diverse panel of experts representing consumers, regulators and industry that discussed with over 30 Senate offices key food safety issues facing Congress today.  United Fresh served as one of the sponsors of this event while Robert Guenther served on the panel discussion focusing his comments on the produce industry's perspective.

"This was an important opportunity to discuss with key Senate offices our views on food safety and the impact this will have on the produce industry," said Guenther. "We look forward to working with the Senate to improve the House legislation and ensure a workable food safety program for fresh produce."

For details, please contact Robert at 202-303-3400.