US Food Traceability Rule Delay Leaves Outbreak Investigation Plans Stalled for 15 Years

A key US food safety law aimed at helping investigators trace contaminated products during foodborne illness outbreaks has been repeatedly delayed. Advocates say the FDA’s latest postponement effectively leaves the country waiting for outcomes Congress expected long ago—after the rule was required by legislation passed in 2010. The Food Traceability Rule is meant to strengthen recordkeeping and fast access to key tracking information, improving how quickly the government can identify sources, issue recalls, and protect consumers.