From time to time, we will provide guidance for companies importing into or export from the United States.
How to work with the FDA in order to successfully import food into or export from the United States:
The new Food Safety Modernization Act requires importers to meet the same requirements as U.S. food producers, processors and handlers.
Keep in close contact with your FDA contacts, be proactive with FDA, show them your operation before they ask.
Be technically prepared, volunteer to do sampling, have data, show them you are thinking and understand your entire supply chain with traceability back to the specific place of harvest and the harvest practices as well as production operational controls.
You will need to prove compliance on all aspects of food safety, control and food traceability between the farm and the customer. This includes testing and test results for biological and chemical contaminants (Certificates of Analysis (CoA) from certified labs) as well as certification for all handlers, transporters (trucks, air, trains, rail), packers, and processors. More testing will be required in the future.
Your supply chain's qualifications and certifications will determine whether or not you will pass or fail FDA audits. Your supply chain+ must comply with GAP, GMP, GHP and HACCP where required. Maintain records of their compliance.
Expect prejudice against imports - American buyers like to think food safety is an import problem.
Be humble and polite. Do not be defensive or argumentative. When asked for something, provide whatever was asked for.
