What is the FSIS maximum allowed percent of Salmonella contamination in Turkey samples?

• A. 13.5% (7 of 52)
• B. 9.5% (5 of 52)
• C. 25% (13 of 52)
• D. 7.2% (4 of 52)

Answer: (A)

In FSIS testing, a lot tolerance approach is used: there is a maximum percentage of samples within a turkey lot that may test positive for Salmonella and still be considered compliant. For turkey, the standard allows up to 7 positive samples out of 52 tested, which works out to 13.5%. This means a lot passes as long as no more than 7 of the 52 samples are Salmonella-positive. If more than 7 positives are found, the lot is noncompliant and corrective actions are triggered. This approach provides a practical balance between ensuring safety and recognizing the realities of testing raw poultry, rather than requiring zero positives.