FDA pilot program tests third-party audit alignment with FSMA

The Food and Drug Administration is launching a voluntary pilot program to evaluate whether services by third-party food safety auditors align with Food Safety Modernization Act requirements.

The program focuses on the Preventive Controls and Produce Safety rules, and is designed to help the industry and FDA determine whether the third-party services follow the FSMA regulations, according to a news release.

Third-party companies are used in a number of ways in the industry, such as importers verifying that exporters they buy from have food safety programs that comply with the FSMA.

The pilot gives importers confidence in the products they are importing, and help the FDA more efficiently determine if importers and receiving facilities are in compliance, according to the release.

The FDA plans to assess up to five third-party food safety standards on their alignment with the Preventive Controls and Produce Safety rules.

The pilot will take a year, and the FDA is asking for requests to participate in the pilot program. Applications are due by Nov. 25. For more information, see the Federal Register notice on the program.

Related stories:

FDA sets FY 2021 FSMA fees for import, third-party audits

FDA adds flexibility to Produce Safety Rule exemptions

FDA extends VQIP program application period for importers