Seven rules have been released by the US Food and Drug Administration, providing the framework for the new US food safety system, three of which will affect produce exporters. These are the Preventive Controls for Human Food, Standards for Produce Safety, and Foreign Supplier Verification Programs for Importers of Food for Humans and Animals. It is likely that importers of New Zealand produce will increase their demands for verification and documentation.

New Zealand has a Food Safety Systems Recognition Arrangement, in place with the US across all food groups, recognising that both country’s systems are said to be of a high standard. It is hoped this will minimise inspection requirements for entry of New Zealand produce to the US under FSMA.

MPI says it will be releasing guidance on the FSMA soon.

Source: HortNZ