FDA officials are asking for industry input into new rules on Preventive Controls for Fresh Produce, according to a conference call with industry representatives today. Officials at the FDA Center for Food Safety and Applied Nutrition (CFSAN) announced an open docket period for public comments on how the agency should craft a mandatory rule for fresh produce. Officials said the notice will be published in Friday’s Federal Register, with a comment period of 90 days.

According to FDA, the rule would cover the growing and handling of raw agricultural commodities. It would not apply to processing or retail handling, as those are already covered by existing regulations.

The agency says the intent of this produce regulation is not to make requirements of the three draft commodity-specific guidance documents that were issued last year for tomatoes, melons and leafy greens.

"The scope of the rule and how it might be applied to diverse operations and conditions for growing and packing fresh produce is under discussion. We are providing an opportunity for input from all stakeholders to help inform these discussions," said FDA's Michelle Smith, who led the conference call.

CFSAN said it intends to publish a proposed rule by the end of 2010, with a final rule published by the end of 2011.

For more information about the FDA's proposed rule or how to provide comments, please contact Dr. David Gombas, United Fresh senior vice president of food safety and technology at 202-303-3400.

EDITOR’S NOTE: A copy of the Federal Register notice can be found here.