May's Food News
Food Industry Employment Program Newsletter
Food Safety First
Noncompliance=Death
Dear ,
I hope you are all well.
I am kind of in shock as to how fast May has whizzed by! It has been a busy month despite, or perhaps because of, Sheltering in Place. We just had Memorial weekend, which for some of you leads to a time to slow down and take stock after a busy winter and spring holiday season and for others it is a time to ramp up for a busy summer season. I love the variety my business brings me!
This year, everything is different because of the uncertainty caused by COVID-19. I am still staying at home as much as possible as travel is not recommended yet. I am lucky that I have some where I can go for early morning walks and it is just next door. While I don't usually include photos in my newsletter I thought you might appreciate the view from my deck.
View from my deck. Birds are singing, squirrels are chattering. Image by Cathy Davies
Compliance and Regulatory News
Late on May 27 the FDA released guidance on Reporting a Temporary Closure or Significantly Reduced Production by a Human Food Establishment and Requesting FDA Assistance During the COVID-19 Public Health Emergency.
Earlier this month they released a best practices checklist for food businesses that are reopening during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Schedule a call if you want to talk about either of these and how they relate to your food business.
Personnel Health
I wrote about what steps small food business can take to ensure the health of their co-workers. I hope you find it helpful. Schedule a food safety chat if you want to discuss your particular food safety and COVID-19 concerns.
Food Systems and Climate Change
For my book, I've been reading about the potential effects of climate change on the global food system. My main focus this month has been on health and the spread of foodborne illness. I give an overview on my blog while looking at the issue through a COVID-19 lens.
This led to the frustration of being stuck in my apartment and feeling like I couldn't do anything to support those struggling now. There are some things we can do, even while stuck at home.
I know the current situation is overwhelming and confusing as there is so much information and advice. I know you would rather do what you love best, which is make and sell great food. Let me me help you sort out the regulatory tangles and keep your co-workers safe by scheduling a free food safety chat. That way you can get back to running your business and making great food.
I see you! I miss you! Please let me know how you are doing.
Now wash your damn hands!!!
All the best,
Cathy