The Foreign Supplier Verification Program (FSVP) is a pivotal regulation within the Food Safety Modernization Act (FSMA) in the United States (US), which strives to uphold the safety standards for imported human and animal food products. Enforced by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA), this regulation requires importers to develop, uphold, and adhere to a verification program for foreign suppliers that ensures compliance with food safety standards through hazard analysis and a risk-based approach.

One of the most fundamental elements of the FSVP is the hazard analysis, which compels importers to identify potential safety hazards associated with their food products. The FSVP primarily operates on a risk-based approach, outlined in Subpart E Part 507 of the FSMA; it establishes requirements for creating a supply chain program for raw materials.

Flexibility is the cornerstone of the FSVP, as it can be adapted to diverse product categories. At the same time, it maintains a rigorous and strict food safety framework. Importers must navigate the specific regulations applicable to their respective products, which emphasizes the need for thorough understanding and compliance.

To aid companies in FSVP compliance, the Food Safety Preventive Controls Alliance (FSPCA) has developed a training curriculum. Importers must leverage this training to seamlessly navigate the intricacies of the regulation.

The scope of the FSVP extends to importers of human and animal food, as well as to dietary supplements. Depending on the product, the US food safety standards may vary, and compliance with the respective regulations is crucial. Notably, an importer subject to Section 418 of the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic (FD&C) Act is considered to be acting in compliance with the FSVP regulation.

In essence, the FSVP regulation underpins the FSMA’s efforts toward guaranteeing food safety standards for imported goods. Its emphasis on a risk-based approach, hazard analysis, and flexibility underscores its commitment to sustaining a robust food safety ecosystem. Working through meticulous compliance and training, importers play a pivotal role in upholding these standards and ensuring the safety of the US food supply chain.

Non-compliance with the FSVP can lead to severe consequences, including refusal of admission, warning letters, import alerts, product detentions, financial losses, and legal actions. To avoid such repercussions, importers must establish, implement, and maintain a comprehensive FSVP, accompanied by accurate and complete record-keeping. Adhering to the FSVP is more than just a mere Regulatory requirement; rather, it serves as a protective measure for both public health and the reputation of businesses that import food products into the US. Regulatory experts at Freyr can guide you through the complexities of the FSVP, ensuring your ongoing compliance with the necessary regulations. Reach out to Freyr today!