The proposed comprehensive reform of US food safety legislation was reportedly defeated yesterday, Wednesday, despite an overwhelming majority of the US House of Representatives voting in favor of the bill.

The 280-150 vote was just six votes shy of the two-thirds needed under special House rules after farm-state lawmakers complained the proposed legislation would be too invasive and create an extra burden for small businesses, while others said it was pushed to the floor too quickly, according to a report by The Associated Press.

On Wednesday night, House leaders rescheduled the bill for another vote today, Thursday; this time, in which only a simple majority is needed for passage.

The bill would give the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) new authority to order recalls and require the agency to develop a system for better tracing the source of foodborne illnesses in the wake of recent salmonella outbreaks.

The US government could also impose new criminal and civil penalties on those who violate the law and food companies would be required to create detailed food safety plans.

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