The role of the Foreign Supplier Verification Program (FSVP) agent is to ensure compliance with the FSVP requirements set forth by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). The FSVP regulation was established under the FDA Food Safety Modernization Act (FSMA) and is designed to enhance the safety of imported food products.
The FSVP agent acts as a representative for the importer and is responsible for performing certain tasks to verify that the foreign suppliers meet FDA's food safety standards. Here are some key responsibilities of an FSVP agent:
Developing and maintaining a written FSVP: The agent must establish and implement a written plan that describes how the importer will verify the safety of the food products being imported.
Evaluating foreign suppliers: The agent must assess the foreign suppliers' compliance with FDA's preventive controls and hazard analysis requirements. This includes evaluating the supplier's food safety practices, procedures, and performance history.
Conducting verification activities: The FSVP agent is responsible for conducting appropriate verification activities to ensure that the foreign suppliers are producing food that meets FDA's safety standards. These activities may include on-site audits, sampling and testing, review of records, and other appropriate measures.
Taking corrective actions: If the agent determines that a foreign supplier is not in compliance with FDA regulations, they must take appropriate corrective actions. This may involve working with the supplier to address the identified issues or, if necessary, discontinuing business with the supplier.
Maintaining records: The FSVP agent must keep records of the verification activities conducted, including documentation related to supplier evaluations, verification procedures, and corrective actions taken.
It's important to note that the FSVP agent can be an individual or an entity, such as a company or a third-party organization, that is based in the United States. Their role is crucial in ensuring that imported food products meet the necessary safety standards before they enter the U.S. market.
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