The FDA will begin requesting that importers send records required under the Foreign Supplier Verification Programs for Importers of Food for Humans and Animals rule, electronically to the agency as it shifts to conducting inspections remotely during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Until now, FSVP inspections have typically been conducted at an importer’s place of business. However, under the FSVP regulation, the FDA has the authority to make written requests for importers to provide records to the agency electronically or by other prompt means. Because of the travel restrictions, social distancing, and other advisories associated with the COVID-19 outbreak, the FDA has determined that most routine onsite inspections are temporarily impractical to conduct at this time.
The FDA will prioritize the inspections of FSVP importers of food from foreign suppliers whose onsite food facility or farm inspections have been postponed due to COVID-19. The agency is also planning on continuing to conduct previously assigned routine and follow-up inspections remotely during this time.
Related: FDA Postpones Domestic Routine Surveillance Inspections; SFA Risk Mitigation Webinar Recap: Regulatory Considerations & Practical Guidance.
from Industry Operations https://ift.tt/347FPHa
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