USDA Seeks Input on Destroying Dodgy Imported Meats and Eggs
Published Date: 3/23/2026
Notice
Summary
The USDA’s Food Safety and Inspection Service wants to keep collecting info about companies that choose to destroy imported meat, poultry, and egg products instead of selling them. No changes are coming, but the current approval expires July 31, 2026, so they’re asking for comments by May 22, 2026. This keeps things clear and safe for everyone involved, with no new costs or rules.
Analyzed Economic Effects
4 provisions identified: 2 benefits, 2 costs, 0 mixed.
You must complete FSIS Form 9840-4
If you are an importer, broker, or agent who chooses to voluntarily destroy imported meat, poultry, or egg products under FSIS supervision, you must complete FSIS Form 9840-4. FSIS Inspection Program Personnel (IPP) will witness the destruction, the form is kept in the FSIS case file, and information is entered into the Public Health Information System (PHIS).
Estimated paperwork burden for importers
FSIS estimates the information collection applies to 151 respondents, with an estimated annual number of 1,416 responses per respondent and a total annual burden of 17,818 hours. These estimates describe the agency's quantified paperwork burden for importers/brokers/agents related to voluntary destruction supervised by FSIS.
No changes; continuation of current rules
FSIS is seeking renewal of the approved information collection with no changes to the existing collection. The agency states there are no new costs or new rules associated with this renewal and the current approval expires on July 31, 2026.
Allowed dispositions for refused-entry product
The regulations list disposition options for U.S. refused-entry imported meat, poultry, and egg products: (1) exportation/return to the origin or third country if permitted, (2) destruction for human food purposes, (3) denaturing so it cannot be used for human food, (4) conversion to animal food if FDA permission is granted and communicated to FSIS, and (5) rectification if the refusal reason is corrected.
Your PRIA Score
Personalized for You
How does this regulation affect your finances?
Sign up for a PRIA Policy Scan to see your personalized alignment score for this federal register document and every other regulation we track. We analyze your financial profile against policy provisions to show you exactly what matters to your wallet.
Key Dates
Department and Agencies
Related Federal Register Documents
2026-08702 — Availability of Revised Food Safety Guideline for Egg Products
The USDA’s Food Safety and Inspection Service just updated its guide for companies that make egg products like pasteurized or frozen eggs. This new version answers common questions and adds fresh science to help these businesses keep eggs safe and follow the rules. If you’re in the egg biz, check out the changes and send your thoughts by July 6, 2026—no extra costs, just clearer safety tips!
2026-08580 — Removal of Standard of Identity for Canned “Tripe With Milk”
Starting June 3, 2026, canned “Tripe with Milk” won’t have a strict recipe to follow anymore. This change lets producers get creative while still making sure labels tell the truth. It’s good news for businesses who want more freedom without confusing customers or costing extra.
2026-08261 — Retail Exemptions Adjusted Dollar Limitations
Starting May 28, 2026, retail stores selling meat and poultry to hotels, restaurants, and similar places have new dollar limits to keep their federal inspection exemptions. These limits adjust based on price changes from last year, making sure stores don’t sell too much outside normal retail amounts. If they go over, they lose their exemption and must follow stricter inspection rules.
2026-06526 — Notice of Request To Renew an Approved Information Collection: New Poultry Inspection System
The USDA’s Food Safety and Inspection Service wants to keep collecting info about how poultry is inspected, with no changes to the current process. This affects poultry plants and helps keep our chicken safe to eat. They’re asking for public comments by June 2, 2026, before renewing the approval that expires August 31, 2026.
2026-05746 — Revising Establishment Size Definitions
The USDA’s Food Safety and Inspection Service wants to update how it defines the size of meat, poultry, and egg plants. These size rules help decide how the agency checks and supports businesses, especially small ones. If changes happen, they could affect how often inspections happen and how rules apply, so businesses should share their thoughts by May 26, 2026.
2026-05509 — Notice of Request To Renew an Approved Information Collection: Procedures for the Notification of New Technology and Requests for Waivers
The USDA’s Food Safety and Inspection Service wants to keep collecting info on how companies tell them about new tech or ask for special permission (waivers). Nothing’s changing, but they need to renew this approval before it expires on July 31, 2026. If you’re involved in food safety tech or waivers, now’s the time to share your thoughts by May 19, 2026!
Previous / Next Documents
Previous: 2026-05548 — Proposed Collection; Comment Request
The Railroad Retirement Board wants your thoughts on updating forms used to pick and manage representative payees—people who handle benefits for those who can’t manage their own. This affects employees, spouses, or survivors who need help with their benefits. The goal is to make the process clearer and easier, with no big cost changes, so get ready to share your feedback soon!
Next: 2026-05551 — Mid-Atlantic Fishery Management Council (MAFMC); Public Meeting
The Mid-Atlantic Fishery Management Council is holding public meetings from April 7-9, 2026, both in New York City and online. They’ll discuss important fish habitat protections, fishing quotas, and new rules that could affect fishermen and coastal communities. These decisions could impact fishing limits and permits, helping balance healthy oceans with local economies.