The Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) has announced that beginning September 16, 2024, it will be adding H5N1 influenza A monitoring in dairy cows at slaughter to its already robust national surveillance programs for pathogens and chemical contaminants.  

FSIS said it will leverage its existing National Residue Program (NRP) and conduct H5N1 sampling in the muscle samples of dairy cow carcasses already collected for this program. Samples will be tested by FSIS laboratory personnel using polymerase chain reaction (PCR) testing. Carcasses sampled under the NRP will held by establishments pending results of residue testing. This process will not require additional holding time for carcasses beyond current residue testing protocols.

In the event of a positive H5N1 finding, USDA said it will work with industry to ensure the carcass does not enter the food supply. 

This initiative builds upon three separate studies previously conducted by USDA. More information on those studies can be found at: Updates on H5N1 Beef Safety Studies | Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (usda.gov)

FSIS said it will keep stakeholders informed of the results of the H5N1 sampling.