FDA Releases Guidance to Help Food Producers Meet FSMA Requirements

Source: Politico

The FDA issued guidance that aims to help importers and food producers comply with food safety rules mandated by the Obama-era Food Safety Modernization Act.

The guidance documents "represent the latest steps the FDA is taking to prevent foodborne illness by ensuring food producers understand and effectively implement [FSMA]," an FDA release said.

The guidance — broken down into five documents — represents an outline of FDA's thinking on FSMA but does not include legally required responsibilities. It is meant to serve as a foundation for producers and importers to ensure that their suppliers are meeting applicable food safety standards, the agency said.

"Our ultimate goal is to keep food — both imported and domestic — safe for Americans, and importers and manufacturers play key roles by helping to ensure the safety of their food products," said Stephen Ostroff, deputy commissioner for foods and veterinary medicine.