The National Restaurant Association issued the following statement from Scott DeFife, executive vice president of policy and government affairs, regarding final passage of the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) Food Safety Modernization Act:

"We appreciate the hard work of Congressional leaders to ensure this legislation represents meaningful improvements to the food safety system. The passage of this bill is welcomed by the restaurant industry, an industry that certainly understands the critical importance of a first class food safety system. Enhancements to that system such as hazard analysis, food safety plans, and increased inspections are all important measures to ensure the food entering the supply chain is safe. The comprehensive reforms and emphasis on prevention will improve the safety of the food purchased by restaurant operators."