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FSIS Launches 24-Hour Web Feature to Answer Technical and Policy Questions

Thursday 23 August 2007

The U.S. Department of Agriculture's (USDA) Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) launched askFSIS, a new web-based feature, designed to help answer technical and policy questions regarding inspection and public health regulations 24 hours a day.

The new interactive feature will provide answers on technical issues in more depth than the standard list of "frequently asked questions" currently available through FSIS' Web site. It will allow visitors to seek answers on topics such as exporting, labeling and inspection-related policies, programs and procedures. Users can also register to be notified when answers are updated.

AskFSIS is designed to serve a business audience, much as FSIS' virtual representative, Ask Karen (AskKaren.gov), serves consumers who have questions about safe food handling and the prevention of foodborne illness.

"This new web-based tool will be especially helpful for owners and operators of small and very small plants and is another example of how FSIS is finding new and innovative ways to meet the needs of its customers," said USDA Under Secretary for Food Safety Dr. Richard Raymond.

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