Surveillance Sampling Outreach

OMB No. 0910-0500

Exp. Date 09/30/2020

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To Whom it May Concern:

In FY2014, FDA transitioned to an approach for microbiological sampling; an approach that is both proactive and preventive in focus. The approach will help increase FDA understanding of the sources of contamination in commodities/practices of interest so that we can more effectively allocate resources to address public health risks.

The surveillance sampling model involves focusing surveillance sampling resources on those foods that pose the greatest public health risk, collecting a statistically significant number of samples over a shorter period of time, typically 12 months, and establishing standardized, transparent, and collaborative processes and communications.

Beginning in FY2019, FDA will initiate the next group of surveillance sampling assignments. Detailed information on the assignment implementation will be shared during an upcoming conference call.

The FDA is working to engage stakeholders earlier and more frequently throughout the assignment development process. This is a continuous improvement process and we welcome constructive feedback. The outreach at this point in involves sharing information with key external stakeholders on the hot pepper and cucumber assignments and sharing survey questions to garner industry feedback as a final step in assignment development process. The outreach team is soliciting feedback to ensure that sample collection is done as effectively and efficiently as possible.

Your participation/nonparticipation in the conference call and survey is completely voluntary and your responses will not have an effect on your eligibility for receipt of any FDA services. In instances where respondent identity is needed (e.g., for follow-up of non-responders), this information collection fully complies with all aspects of the Privacy Act and data will be kept secure to the fullest extent allowed by law.

The FDA host a conference call on XXXXXX from 12pm to 1pm EST to provide additional details and survey questions.

FDA is requesting feedback be sent to (INSERT CONTACT INFORMATION or [email protected]). The FDA will then provide final assignment information to external stakeholders prior to assignment execution.

We look forward to receiving your feedback.

Thank you!