In the March 4, 2016, Federal Register, FDA requested scientific data, information, and comments to assist the Agency in its plan to develop a risk assessment for produce grown in fields or other growing areas amended with untreated biological soil of animal origin (including raw manure). The risk assessment will evaluate and, if feasible, quantify the risk of human illness associated with consumption of produce grown in fields or other growing areas amended with untreated biological soil that are potentially contaminated with enteric pathogens, such as E. coli O157:H7 or Salmonella. In addition, the risk assessment will evaluate the impact of certain interventions, such as use of a time interval between application of the soil amendment and crop harvest, on the predicted risk. The risk assessment is intended to inform policy decisions with regard to produce safety. Comments are due May 3, 2016.
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