The Senate HELP Committee unanimously passed S. 510, the FDA Food Safety Modernization Act, on Nov. 18, 2009. The bill amends the Federal Food, Drug and Cosmetic Act.

“Food safety is the highest priority for bakers-it is incorporated into every aspect of our members’ daily operations,” said Robb MacKie, president and C.E.O. of the American Bakery Association (ABA). “And as such, ABA commends the Senate HELP Committee for addressing these critical issues.”

The bill includes a host of proposals to improve food safety, including expanded authority of the Secretary of Health and Human Services, mandatory food safety plans in food facilities, reforms regarding import facilities and tighter food-borne illness surveillance.

www.govtrack.us and search for S. 510 in the “Bills and Resolutions” menu.