FDA has published a proposed rule requiring shippers that transport food to use sanitary transportation practices. The action is being taken to comply with provisions of the Food Safety Modernization Act and covers shippers that use motor vehicles or rail.

“The goal of the proposed rule is to ensure that transportation practices do not create food safety risks,” FDA said in a statement. The proposal comment period is open until May 31, 2014.

 The rule seeks to address the failure to properly refrigerate food and protect it during transportation, as well as the inadequate cleaning of vehicles between loads. The agency said its proposal builds on current safe food transport practices and is focused on ensuring those engaged in the transportation of food at the greatest risk for contamination during transportation follow appropriate sanitary transportation practices.