WASHINGTON – The Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) of the US Dept. of Agriculture will begin an e-mail survey of small and very small meat and poultry processors to enhance communication between the agency and smaller slaughter establishments.

FSIS will begin emailing processors on June 25. The survey is voluntary and individual responses will be kept confidential. The agency is soliciting feedback on information and resources small and very small processors need. The agency plans to use survey results to develop and deliver of technical, scientific and regulatory compliance information; and additionally aid in the creation of future guidance, tools and resources.

Also, FSIS will collect data on humane handling and food defense directly from establishment owners to better support these activities.

“I encourage owners of small and very small plants to participate in this survey and give us feedback on how FSIS can continue to improve our outreach efforts, and in turn, help them enhance their food safety practices,” said Acting Deputy Under Secretary for Food Safety Carmen Rottenberg.

Small and very small meat and poultry establishment owners will have approximately 30 days to complete the survey.