Food Safety and Quality: FDA Can Improve Monitoring of Imported Cheese
RCED-92-210
Published: Jul 06, 1992. Publicly Released: Jul 15, 1992.
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Highlights
Pursuant to a congressional request, GAO reviewed: (1) the health risks presented by imported cheeses; (2) the Food and Drug Administration's (FDA) efforts to regulate the safety of domestic and imported cheeses; and (3) concerns about the FDA import program.
Recommendations
Recommendations for Executive Action
| Agency Affected | Recommendation | Status |
|---|---|---|
| Department of Health and Human Services | Because of the lack of information on the effectiveness of the FDA certification program with France, the Secretary of Health and Human Services should direct the Commissioner, FDA, to develop a formal program to monitor the French certification agreement for imported soft cheese, as well as other certification programs, as appropriate. |
The agency generally agreed with the characterization in the report and is exploring means to formalize its certification program with France. The agency has drafted a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) for soft-ripened cheeses that are produced and packaged in France for export to the United States. The French government is exploring alternatives to the MOU, and FDA believes that a quick solution is unlikely.
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Commodity marketingConsumer protectionDairy productsFood inspectionFood safetyHealth hazardsImport regulationInfectious diseasesSafety regulationSafety standards