FDA released the second installment of a draft guidance designed to support compliance with the Intentional Adulteration (IA) rRule under the Food Safety Modernization Act (FSMA). The first installment was published in June 2018, and a third installment is to follow.

The second installment outlines two flexible methods for how facilities can conduct vulnerability assessments to identify areas of highest risk, as well as details the mitigation strategies required to significantly minimize or prevent significant vulnerabilities that have been identified. The draft guidance also provides information about education and training requirements for individuals who perform certain activities under the IA rule.

FSMA’s final IA rule is designed to address hazards that may be intentionally introduced to foods, including by acts of terrorism, with the intent to cause wide-spread harm to the public health. Unlike other FSMA rules that address specific foods or hazards, the IA rule requires the food industry to implement risk-reducing strategies for processes in food facilities that are significantly vulnerable to intentional adulteration. In the 2016 IA final rule, FDA identified four key activities that are most vulnerable to intentional adulteration: (1) bulk liquid receiving and loading, (2) liquid storage and handling, (3) secondary ingredient handling, and (4) mixing and similar activities.

Stakeholders may submit comments on this IA draft guidance until July 5, 2019.