The FSIS has reissued notice 32-15, with instructions for inspection program personnel to follow when collecting poultry samples for Salmonella and Campylobacter.

The notice gives instruction on handling and transporting broth, drill sampling methods and packing. Sample results are non-regulatory, meaning that sample lots are not subject to test and hold, and are not refused entry for a positive result. If the sample tests positive, the importer may choose to draw back the entire or a partial lot. FSIS does not consider Salmonella or Campylobacter to be adulterants in raw poultry products, except in cases such as a production lot being tied to an illness. The notice also provides guidance for topics to be discussed in awareness meetings, including which product is to be sampled and what sampled products do not have to be held.

The updated rules can be seen under “Regulations & Policies” at www.fsis.usda.gov.