As discussed above, in the November 27, 2015, Federal Register, FDA
adopted regulations to provide for accreditation of third-party
certification bodies to conduct food safety audits of foreign food
entities, including registered foreign food facilities, and to
issue food and facility certifications, under the FSMA. These
certifications will be required for participation in the voluntary
qualified importer program established under the FD&C Act. In
addition, when the Agency has determined that an imported food is
subject to certification under FSMA, the Agency may require a
certification under this rule as a condition for admitting the food
into the United States. Final rule is effective January
26, 2016. FDA intends to implement this program as soon as
possible.
The content of this article is intended to provide a general guide to the subject matter. Specialist advice should be sought about your specific circumstances.