Importing food to the U.S.? Here’s what you need to know about the FSVP

As mentioned in other articles, the FDA has several tools to ensure consumer safety and product quality. One of these is the Foreign Supplier Verification Program (FSVP), a regulatory requirement established under the Food Safety Modernization Act (FSMA).

The FSVP ensures that foods imported into the United States meet the same safety standards as foods produced domestically. This helps prevent adulterated or misbranded products from entering the U.S. market, protecting both consumers and businesses.

Who is responsible for FSVP compliance?

Compliance primarily falls on the importer. If there is no U.S. owner or consignee, a U.S. representative or agent must be designated to assume responsibility for meeting FSVP requirements.

Importer obligations under the FSVP

To comply with the FSVP, the importer or their U.S. agent must follow several key steps:

• Hire a qualified individual to develop and manage the FSVP.

• Conduct a risk analysis to identify biological, chemical, and physical hazards in food and raw materials.

• Verify that foreign suppliers comply with FDA-required safety controls, which may include audits, product testing, or record review.

• Develop a verification plan tailored to the type of food, associated risks, and the supplier’s history.

• Implement corrective actions if non-compliance is detected.

• Maintain documentation of verification activities for at least two years.

Random FDA inspections

The FDA conducts random inspections of importers to verify FSVP compliance. During these inspections, the agency may request documentation proving that appropriate verification controls were applied. Failure to maintain records or meet requirements can result in fines, customs holds, or even the prohibition of importing certain products.

Are there exceptions to the FSVP?

Yes. Some types of foods are exempt, including:

• Products intended solely for research

• Foods in transit

• Products regulated by other federal agencies

The impact of FSVP on importers

The FSVP is not only a mandatory regulatory requirement, it is also an opportunity to strengthen your company’s credibility and operational stability in the U.S. market. Compliance helps avoid penalties, customs delays, and rejected shipments.

However, managing the FSVP can be technically and administratively challenging, especially for companies with multiple international suppliers.

How CORE can help you comply with the FSVP

At CORE, our team of regulatory consultants is ready to assist you at every step:

• We determine if your product is subject to FSVP regulations.

• We guide you in developing and implementing your FSVP plan.

• We help you avoid delays and import issues.

Don’t let non-compliance disrupt your operations. Contact us today to ensure your company meets FSVP requirements efficiently and confidently.