In September, USDA / FSIS announced that it intends to carry out verification procedures, including sampling and testing of manufacturing trim and other raw ground beef components, to ensure control of both E.coli O157:H7 and six other serogroups of STEC E. coli (O26, O45, O103, O111, O121, and O145). FSIS has determined that they, as well as O157:H7, are adulterants of non-intact raw beef products and product components within the meaning of the Federal Meat Inspection Act.

Beginning March 5, 2012, FSIS will test raw ground beef or source materials used to make ground beef, as well as mechanically tenderized steaks and roasts, for E. coli serogroups O26, O45, O103, O111, O121 and O145. If FSIS finds any of those serogroups in these types of products, it will prohibit the product from entering commerce.

Additionally, the Comment Period on the September 20, 2011 Proposed Rule will be extended to December 21, 2011.

Posted below are: 76 FR 58157, Proposed Rule, September 20, 2011 and 76 FR 72331, Notice of Extension of Comment Period, November 23, 2011.