Based on results from a sampling assignment of fresh basil, cilantro and parsley from September 2017 to September 2021, the FDA has stated that it will update program priorities regarding sampling assignments and surveillance inspections.

This assignment assessed Cyclospora cayetanensis, Salmonella spp., and Shiga toxin-producing Escherichia coli (STEC) in these herbs, both domestic and imported. Results from this sampling assignment can be found here.

The FDA encourages the industry to “ensure its compliance with the agency’s Produce Safety Rule, Preventive Controls for Human Food Rule, and FSMA Final Rule on Requirements for Additional Traceability Records for Certain Foods.”

For questions about food safety best practices, contact Joelle Mosso at [email protected].