WASHINGTON — The U.S. Department of Agriculture yesterday announced the development of the Quality Monitoring Program, a new service that will allow companies to submit processed produce samples to USDA graders for impartial review. “This program is another example of government and industry working closely together to build services that will make a difference,” Robert Keeney, deputy administrator of the USDA’s Agricultural Marketing Service, said in a release. “This agreement underscores the commitment of U.S. Foodservice to the highest standards of quality, and will re-confirm that a consistent quality is maintained.” After the QMP inspections, products that do not conform to a supplier’s assigned specifications are immediately reported back to the company. Chicago-based U.S. Foodservice is reportedly the first company to sign an agreement with the program.

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