On March 31, 2017, FDA issued a guidance formally recognizing the Data Universal Numbering System ("DUNS") number as an acceptable unique facility identifier ("UFI") for importers responsible for meeting the requirements of the Foreign Supplier Verification Programs ("FSVP") rule. The final FSVP rule, which requires that importers perform certain risk-based activities to verify that food imported into the United States has been produced in a manner that meets applicable U.S. safety standards, previously indicated that FDA might consider DUNS numbers as acceptable UFI(s). FDA stated, "the identification of importers will help the FDA effectively implement, monitor compliance with, and enforce the FSVP requirements."

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