The FSVP or Foreign Supplier Verification Program is a crucial initiative for food companies operating in the U.S. and Canadian markets. Implemented by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), it aims to ensure that imported food complies with North American food safety standards.
FSVP: Key Food Import Requirements
Strict adherence to this program is not only a legal obligation. It is also a commitment to the quality and safety of the food that reaches the consumer's table. Here are its main requirements.
Risk Analysis
Importers must carry out an exhaustive analysis of the risks associated with imported food. In this sense, through rigorous analysis, food science can identify chemical, physical and biological hazards that affect the safety of the product. The analysis must consider both its production process and its handling.
Evaluation of Foreign Suppliers
It is essential to evaluate the reliability and competence of the foreign supplier. Importers should review their history of compliance with sanitary regulations, as well as any relevant audit reports and certifications.
Verification and Monitoring Activities
Food chemistry includes various verification tasks to ensure that foreign suppliers follow food safety practices. These activities may include on-site audits, product testing and record review. The frequency and type of verification depends on the level of risk associated with the food and the supplier's history.
Corrective Actions
If importers detect problems with a food product, such as cross-contamination, they should take a corrective action immediately. This may involve suspending the import, improving the supplier's food safety practices, or seeking alternative suppliers. Corrective actions should be documented and reviewed regularly.
FSVP: Documentation and Record Keeping
Current regulations require keeping detailed records of assessments, verifications, and corrective actions taken. These records must be retained for at least two years and be available for FDA review.
Importance of the FSVP for Food Safety
Program compliance is an essential measure of public health. Therefore, companies must ensure that all imported foods meet U.S. food safety standards. This includes compliance with the Food Safety Modernization Act (FSMA).
In addition, food safety and sanitation is a shared responsibility that requires continuous effort. Therefore, it is key for importing companies to constantly review their processes and evaluate their suppliers. They must also ensure quality standards in line with current regulations. Moreover, they must be prepared for unannounced inspections and audits.
In short, staying informed about the latest FSVP updates and improvements helps you comply with official regulations. This way, you protect your consumers and strengthen your company's reputation in the marketplace. If you want to go a step further, we invite you to use the highest quality inputs for your business, such as those offered by Disjobel.
References
FDA. (n.d.). Regla final sobre programas de verificación de proveedores extranjeros. https://www.fda.gov/media/97900/download
Negron, F. (2024, February 13). FSVP 101: Todo lo que necesita saber como importador de FSVP. Registrar Corp. https://www.registrarcorp.com/es/blog/fsvp-importer-guide/