GCCA celebrates FSIS decision to lift 50-mile limit on meat

The Global Cold Chain Alliance (GCCA), which represents temperature-controlled logistics companies around the world, welcomes the decision by the Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) to remove the 50-mile radius limit for meat and poultry import inspection facilities.

This policy revision, made possible through a joint effort between GCCA and the Meat Import Council of the United States (MICA), eliminates a decades-old rule that limited facilities designated as “I-Houses” to no more than Locations within 50 miles of the factory. U.S. ports of entry.

what does this change mean

I-House status allows the storage warehouse to hold goods awaiting FSIS import inspection. Earning this designation requires compliance with strict standards, including product separation and on-site inspection capabilities. Removing the 50-mile limit provides greater flexibility, allowing facilities further inland to be used as I-Houses, simplifying logistics and reducing efficiencies.

GCCA President and CEO Sara Stickler applauded the move, saying:
“This decision reflects a common sense approach to modern supply chains. It will help our members improve operational efficiency and better meet the growing demand for import services. Our industry remains committed to ensuring high standards of food safety while improving Supply chain efficiency.”

Why the 50-mile rule must go

The original policy, developed decades ago to simplify inspection logistics, failed to take into account modern advances in supply chain technology. Today, real-time tracking and digital traceability alleviate the concerns that originally justified the rule.

GCCA and MICA highlighted these advances in their petition, noting that the industry has shifted toward utilizing inland ports of entry. They believe inspection facilities should be aligned with these changing transportation trends.

new assessment criteria

Instead of adhering to arbitrary geographic restrictions, FSIS will now evaluate I-House applications based on the following factors:

1. Check staff availability.
2. Expected product quantity.
3. Facility operating hours.

This tailored approach ensures efficient use of FSIS resources while maintaining high standards of food safety.

A step towards smart supply chain

By removing unnecessary restrictions, FSIS opens the door to a more adaptable and efficient inspection process. GCCA members are now better able to meet market demands while maintaining strict compliance standards.

This decision is a milestone in regulatory modernization, aligning policy with the realities of today’s global supply chains and strengthening the U.S. food system’s reputation for safety and innovation.