In 2019, Marler's firm, Marler Clark, in collaboration with other food safety advocates, filed a legal petition with the USDA's FSIS to have Salmonella classified as an adulterant in raw poultry products. The petition argued that Salmonella contamination poses a significant health risk, necessitating that contaminated products be considered unsafe for consumption. Marler has worked with various food safety organizations and public health advocates to push for stronger regulations regarding Salmonella in chicken. This coalition has focused on garnering support for the petition and raising awareness of food safety issues.
While the petition for classifying Salmonella as an adulterant has not yet led to formal regulatory changes by the USDA, Marler’s advocacy has sparked important discussions within the agency and among policymakers about food safety regulations. His emphasis on a proactive approach to preventing foodborne illnesses, rather than relying solely on reactive measures after outbreaks, has been a significant aspect of his arguments. Marler's ongoing efforts influence the dialogue surrounding foodborne illness prevention and highlight the responsibilities of food producers in ensuring the safety of their products. His work exemplifies how legal advocacy, public awareness campaigns, and collaboration with stakeholders can drive improvements in food safety standards and protect public health.