Establishments that exceed the performance standard for Salmonella within a 52-week window will be classified by FSIS into which category?

• A. Category 1
• B. Category 2
• C. Category 3
• D. Category 4

Answer: (C)

FSIS uses a rolling 52‑week window to track Salmonella performance and places establishments into categories that reflect how well they meet the standard. When an establishment’s Salmonella rate exceeds the performance standard within that 52‑week period, it is assigned to the category that signals elevated risk and triggers appropriate oversight and corrective actions. This category represents noncompliance with the standard without reaching the most severe enforcement level. So the correct category is the one used for exceedances of the standard.