Mandatory Inspection of Ratites and Squabs

The Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) is affirming the interim final rule that it published on May 7, 2001 (66 FR 22899) that amended the Poultry Products Inspection Regulations and the Voluntary Poultry Inspection Regulations to make the slaughtering and processing of ratites and squabs subject to mandatory inspection. The Agency acted in response to the FY 2001 Agriculture, Rural Development, Food and Drug Administration and Related Agencies Appropriations Act (the Appropriations Act). The Agency invited interested parties to comment on the interim final rule. FSIS is also making minor clarifying modifications to the regulations concerning ratites and squabs and is extending for an additional 12 months the time allowed for foreign countries to become equivalent for exporting ratites or squabs to the United States.