SGS Introduces Sixth Edition of the US FDA Food Facility Registration Guidance

On 18 November 2014, the United States Food and Drug Administration (US FDA) published their sixth edition of the food facility registration guidance (1). The major change in the guidance involves the proposed definition of farm from the Preventive Control rule that was published 29 September 2014.

Fairfield, NJ, December 19, 2014 --(PR.com)-- New Definition of a “Farm”

In the Preventive Control Rule the US FDA is proposing to change the definition of a farm as listed in 21 Code of Federal Regulations (CFR) 1.227. This change will allow farms to pack or hold raw agricultural commodities grown on a farm of a different ownership. These farms would no longer have to register as a food facility that packs or holds food products, if this proposal is finalized as it is.

The US FDA is stating they will not prioritize the enforcement of the registration of these facilities. This is important during the period of time when all food facilities that are required to register per Section 415(a)(3) of the Food, Drug and Cosmetic Act must renew their registration. This is during October 1st to December 31st of every even numbered year.

US FDA is reminding the industry that until the Food Safety Modernization Act (FSMA) regulations are finalized there may be further changes to this and other guidance documents affected by FSMA.

The supplemental rules comment period ends 15 December 2014 so for more information on FSMA and how to comment on the proposed regulations visit the US FDA website (http://www.fda.gov/Food/GuidanceRegulation/FSMA/default.htm).

Reference:

(1) US FDA food guidance (http://www.fda.gov/Food/GuidanceRegulation/GuidanceDocumentsRegulatoryInformation/ucm331959.htm?source=govdelivery&utm_medium=email&utm_source=govdelivery)

About SGS Food Safety Services

SGS is committed to keeping customers informed of regulatory news and developments. Leveraging a global network of laboratories and food experts, SGS provides a comprehensive range of food safety and quality solutions including analytical testing, audits (http://www.sgs.com/en/Consumer-Goods-Retail/Food/Retail-and-Hospitality/Audits.aspx), certifications, inspections and technical support. SGS continually invests in a world class testing capabilities and state-of-the-art technology to help clients reduce risks, and improve food safety and quality.

For further information, please contact an SGS expert.

SGS is the world’s leading inspection, verification, testing and certification company. SGS is recognized as the global benchmark for quality and integrity. With more than 80,000 employees, SGS operates a network of over 1,650 offices and laboratories around the world.
Contact
SGS Consumer Testing Services
James Cook
+1 973 461 1493
http://www.foodsafety.sgs.com
Food Scientific and Regulatory Affairs Manager
291 Fairfield Ave, Fairfield
New Jersey 07004, USA
ContactContact
Categories