The Food Safety Modernization Act (FSMA)

The Food Safety Modernization Act (FSMA) is a U.S. law aimed at ensuring food safety by focusing on preventing foodborne illnesses. Enacted in 2011, it gives the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) enhanced authority to enforce food safety standards and requires food producers to implement preventive measures. This means that farms and food facilities must identify and control potential hazards in their processes. The FSMA emphasizes a proactive approach to food safety rather than just responding to outbreaks, aiming to protect public health by improving the safety of the food supply chain.