Use of Transglutaminase Enzyme and Pork Collagen as Binders in Certain Meat and Poultry Products

On October 31, 2001, the Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) published a direct final rule "Use of Transglutaminase Enzyme and Pork Collagen as Binders in Certain Meat and Poultry Products" in the Federal Register. This direct final rule notified the public of FSIS's intention to amend the Federal meat and poultry products inspection regulations to permit the use of one or both of these substances, in limited amounts, as binders in certain standardized meat and poultry products. This direct final rule also announced the Agency's intention to prescribe labeling requirements when tranglutaminase enzyme (TG enzyme) is used to fabricate or reform cuts of meat or poultry. FSIS received one comment in response to the direct final rule. However, the comment was not an adverse comment or notice of intent to submit an adverse comment. Therefore, FSIS is affirming the December 31, 2001, effective date for this direct final rule.