Iowa Food Protection Rapid Response Team

Iowa Food Protection Rapid Response Team Project Summary/AbstractSummary of Proposed Activity:The Iowa Department of Inspections and Appeals (DIA), the Iowa Department of Public Health(IDPH), the Iowa Department of Agriculture (IDALS), and the State Hygienic Laboratory at theUniversity of Iowa (SHL) will work collaboratively with FDA to continue and expand the IowaRapid Response Team (RRT) for large scale food and feed emergencies. The Iowa RRT hasthe combined expertise and resources of multiple agencies leading to a multidisciplinaryapproach that facilitates a coordinated, efficient, and effective response.Statement of Objectives and Methods to be EmployedTwo key groups will compose and support the Iowa Rapid Response Team program, the RRTCoordinating Council and the Core Rapid Response Team Members. The RRT CoordinatingCouncil will serve as an advisory group to the Core RRT Members. The second key group isthe Core RRT Members, which consists of three members, a Rapid Response TeamCoordinator, the RRT Public Health Liaison and a RRT IDALS Liaison. The Core RRTMembers will meet weekly to accomplish the activities outlined on the Milestones Table includedin this cooperative agreement application. The RRT Coordinating Council will meet quarterlywith the Core RRT Members to assess progress, identify obstacles, and provide assistance asappropriate. The RRT Coordinating Council and Core RRT Members will hold quarterlymeetings with federal partners including the FDA and USDA FSIS in order to review progressand identify resource needs for further RRT program development and implementation.Broad, Long Tem ObjectivesThe Iowa RRT will maintain and expand an all-hazards food and feed protection program incollaboration with other RRTs and the FDA. The mission of the Iowa RRT is to effectivelyrespond to foodborne outbreaks and identify potential preventive practices to protect the foodsupply and consumer health nationally and globally.