Retail Program Standards Reference System Launched

A searchable knowledgebase of current Retail Program Standards interpretations, the Retail Program Standards Reference System (RPSRS), has been launched by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). The RPSRS provides access to FDA’s responses to questions related to the Voluntary National Retail Food Regulatory Program Standards. It is intended to promote a consistent understanding and application of the Retail Program Standards. The RPSRS is designed to serve as a resource for federal agencies, state/local/tribal jurisdictions, consumers, academia, and industry stakeholders involved in the prevention of foodborne illnesses. The RPSRS also is designed to assist the FDA, State, local, and tribal jurisdictions in the promotion, adoption, and implementation of the FDA Retail Program Standards as a means to achieving uniform national food safety standards.

Interpretations are developed and issued by members of the Clearinghouse workgroup which includes FDA staff as well as external State, Local, Territorial, and Tribal partners.  View this factsheet for additional information about the Clearinghouse Workgroup.

The database can be found on the Retail Program Standards landing page or directly at this link: https://cfsanappsexternal.fda.gov/scripts/rpsrs/. Questions regarding the use of RPSRS should be directed to an FDA Retail Food Specialist.