Peer review is an integral part of the risk assessment process at FSIS. In part, this review will be provided by the public during comment periods in response to announcements and public meetings; however, the agency believes it is important that scientific review also be sought. For projects with less economic impact, peer review may consists solely of internal reviews or review by knowledgeable experts in sister agencies. For large assessments that will be used to inform regulations that have a significant economic impact, independent external expert review is sought.
For the risk assessments conducted to date, the Agency has used a range of peer review mechanisms including review by inter- and intra-agency specialists; the National Advisory Committee on Microbiological Criteria for Foods; the Academy of Sciences; contractual arrangements and IPAs with subject area experts, and the Risk Assessment Consortium. Each has its advantages and disadvantages.
Based on its experience, the Agency has come to recognize the
need for a peer-review system that is able to cost-effectively
access a broad range of scientific expertise in a timely manner.
Requirements for peer reviewers and elements of a good peer-review
process will be discussed. Challenges facing the Agency with respect
to future reviews will also be presented.