This guidance document assists firms who wish to use new antimicrobial agents or to make new use of antimicrobial agents that are already employed in the production of beef carcasses, ground beef, and beef trimmings, to reduce the presence of pathogenic microorganisms on meat products. This guidance document relates to 9 CFR 424.21, 21 CFR 173, the FSIS final rule Food Ingredients and Sources of Radiation Listed or Approved for Use in the Production of Meat and Poultry Products, a memorandum of understanding between FSIS and FDA, a document entitled Guidance on the Procedures for Joint Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) and the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) Approval of Ingredients Used in the Production of Meat and Poultry Products.