Why is the Sanitary Operations performance standard considered important?

The importance of the Sanitary Operations performance standard stems from its fundamental requirement that products must be consistently protected throughout all stages of production and during their transportation to and from establishments. This standard is crucial because ensuring that food products are handled in a sanitary manner significantly reduces the risk of contamination, thereby safeguarding public health. By mandating the protection of products at every step, from processing through delivery, the standard helps maintain the integrity of the food supply chain, enhances food safety, and builds consumer confidence in USDA-inspected products. This preventive approach aligns with the overall goals of food safety regulations, focusing on minimizing risks before they can impact consumers.