Last week, FDA announced a new voluntary, fee-based program called the Voluntary Qualified Importer Program ("VQIP") for the expedited review and importation of foods into the United States from importers with a proven food safety track record. The VQIP, which is required under the Food Safety Modernization Act ("FSMA"), will be available to importers who "achieve and maintain a high level of control over the safety and security of their supply chains." VQIP is designed to benefit industry and consumers, offering industry expedited entry for qualified imported foods and offering consumers enhanced protection by reallocating FDA resources for food imports more likely to pose a risk to public health. FDA has released a draft guidance on the new program, which, among other details, provides information on the benefits of VQIP for importers, eligibility criteria, and application instructions.
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