FSVP Requirements
The Foreign Supplier Verification Program (FSVP) requirements are designed to ensure that the food imported into the United States meets US safety standards and is not adulterated or misbranded. Here are some of the key requirements under the FSVP:
Identification of the Foreign Supplier
The importer must identify and document the foreign supplier’s name, address, and other information necessary to establish the FSVP.
Hazard Analysis
The importer must evaluate the potential hazards associated with the imported food and determine if any hazards are likely to occur.
Evaluation and Approval of Foreign Suppliers
The importer must evaluate and approve its foreign suppliers based on the risk posed by the food, the supplier’s food safety history, and the supplier’s compliance with US food safety regulations.
Verification Activities
The importer must verify that its foreign suppliers are producing food that meets US safety standards through on-site audits, sampling and testing, or review of the supplier’s food safety records.
Corrective Actions
If the importer determines that a foreign supplier is not producing food that meets US safety standards, it must take appropriate corrective actions, which may include discontinuing the use of the supplier.
Recordkeeping
The importer must maintain records documenting its compliance with the FSVP requirements, including documentation of hazard analysis, foreign supplier approval, verification activities, and corrective actions.
