The U.S. FDA has opened an online Foreign Supplier Verification Program Importer Portal for FSVP Records Submission for importers of human and animal and human food into the U.S. This portal serves as a dedicated, streamlined way for importers to submit FSVP records electronically to the FDA, if they choose.
The FDA FSVP for Food Importers, established by the Food Safety Modernization Act, requires importers to perform certain risk-based activities to verify that their foreign suppliers are producing food in accordance with U.S. food safety standards. The FDA typically conducts inspections of FSVP records at an importer’s place of business. However, if requested in writing by the FDA, the FSVP regulation requires importers to provide FSVP records to the agency electronically, or through another means that delivers the records promptly.
Importers with an active FDA Account ID and password can access the portal on the FDA’s Unified Registration and Listing System page. An importer without an existing account can create one from the FURLS page. A user guide for the portal is available on the FURLS page.
The portal supports the goals and objectives of the FDA Strategy for the Safety of Imported Food through better records management and more efficient communication between the FSVP importer and the FDA.
Related: FDA Releases Report on Foodborne Illness Risk Factors in Delis; FDA’s Food Traceability Rule and Its Effect on Specialty Food.