National Curriculum Standard Buildout: Low Acid Canned Food (LACF)

IFPTI continued to complete the buildout of the National Curriculum Standard (NCS), which is a foundational element of the National Regulatory and Laboratory Training System (NRLTS) for human and animal food regulators. The NCS sets forth the competencies (knowledge, skills, and abilities) needed by regulators for successful job performance across all jurisdictions.

During the week of April 8, 2024, IFPTI facilitated an in-person/virtual subject matter expert working group in Tampa focusing on three content areas within the Manufactured Food Component of the NCS: Low Acid Canned Food (LACF), Aseptic, Acidified. The working group represented FDA and state regulatory agencies.

During the meeting, the working group developed a competency standard for Advanced regulators conducting inspections of LACF facilities, which includes an Aseptic sub-topic. The group also reviewed and updated the competency standard for Advanced regulators conducting inspections of Acidified food. As a result of this meeting, a competency standard for Manufactured Food, at both the Basic and Advanced Level, is now complete.

Members of the LACF Working Group, from left to right: Cathy Martin (Michigan), Chris Weiss (IFPTI), Crystal Harlin (FDA), Lourdes Andujar (FDA), Bruce Taylor (FDA), Kathy Taylor (FDA), Jason Wiard (Alaska), Sue Brace (IFPTI), and Brian Schuettler (Florida).