FSVP: Foreign Supplier Verification Program
What does the FSVP Rule do?
The rule ensures that imported foods meet the same level of food safety standards that are required of food produced in the U.S.
The rule gives the U.S. importer the responsibility of verifying that its foreign suppliers are doing what they need to do to meet those requirements.
Key principles of the FSVP Rule
Importers share responsibility with foreign suppliers to ensure safety of food imported into the U.S.
FSVP requirements are risk-based (according to types of food, types of hazards, and supplier performance).
Importers have flexibility in how they meet requirements.
Who is an importer under the FSVP Rule?
“…If there is no U.S. owner or consignee of an article of food at the time of U.S. entry, the importer is the U.S. agent or representative of the foreign owner or consignee at the time of entry, as confirmed in a signed statement of consent to serve as the importer under this subpart.” [21 CFR part 2, Subpart L, 1.500 Definitions]
What are the Responsibilities of the FSVP?
- Determining known or reasonably foreseeable hazards with each food imported
- Evaluating the risk posed by the food (based on a hazard analysis and foreign supplier’s performance)
- Using that evaluation to approve suppliers
- Conducting supplier verification activities and
- Conducting corrective actions
