FDA Issues 2026 Retail Food Regulatory Program Standards With Two New Definitions
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) on November 12 issued the 2026 edition of the Voluntary National Retail Food Regulatory Program Standards, defining the key elements of an effective retail food regulatory program for state, local, tribal and territorial agencies, covering retail food establishments such as supermarkets and restaurants.
The 2026 edition incorporates changes recommended from the 2025 Conference for Food Protection Biennial Meeting, including two new definitions: "Risk Based Inspection" and "Intervention Strategy", giving regulators a common reference for inspections and enforcement.
Enrollment in the program is voluntary. Jurisdictions that enroll may apply for related federal funding to advance adoption of the standards and strengthen local retail food oversight. (Source: U.S. Food and Drug Administration)
Source: U.S. Food and Drug Administration
Published by GSM · USA (original Chinese edition)
Photo: 超市生鲜蔬果货架，零售食品场所一景 (Fresh produce shelves at a supermarket, a retail food setting. Photo: Wilfredor, CC BY-SA, via Wikimedia Commons)
