Recently the USA established new rules relating to certain Shiga toxin-producing Escherichia coli (STECs) which require the application of HACCP to manage the risks associated with these STECs. Processors in the USA are applying a range of different interventions to manage these risks as well as a range of testing and other quality assurance functions to respond to these new requirements. While Australian processors have been fully engaged in the changing environment it was identified there was a need to provide processors with advice on options available to respond to the new requirements and positive test results for STECs that have begun to be identified within the US market. Additionally more information was needed to examine the new alternatives being applied in the US and to integrate this information into the current AMPC and MLA advice on intervention management for the benefit of Australian exporters.

To this end 8 industry representatives took part in the tour from February 6 to 20th 2013 which included attending the North American Meat Association conference and expo. Participants on the study tour were current USA listed beef exporters who co-invested with AMPC and MLA under the syndicated PIP arrangements.