Which option correctly represents the FSIS document hierarchy from highest to lowest?

• A. Regulations -> Acts -> Directives -> Notices -> Performance
• B. Acts -> Directives -> Regulations -> Notices -> Performance
• C. Acts -> Regulations -> Directives -> Notices -> Performance
• D. Acts -> Regulations -> Notices -> Directives -> Performance

Answer: (C)

The sequence starts with the broad legal authority and becomes more specific and action-oriented as you move down. Acts are statutory laws enacted by Congress that authorize FSIS actions. Regulations are the rules that implement those Acts, detailing exactly how the authority is applied and enforced. Directives take those regulations and translate them into the agency’s day-to-day procedures for staff, guiding how inspections and enforcement are actually carried out. Notices then communicate to stakeholders and the public about changes, updates, or actions taken under those regulations. Finally, Performance documents focus on measuring and describing how well the requirements are being met, providing the basis for evaluation and improvement.

So the order is: Acts, then Regulations, then Directives, then Notices, and finally Performance.