fda

Fda - Export food to USA

If you decide to sell agri-food products online in the United States, you will need to deal with the FDA, the acronym for the Food and Drug Administration. This U.S. agency oversees and regulates the American market for food, pharmaceutical, and cosmetic products.

The FDA was established to prevent bioterrorism within the agri-food supply chain and to ensure that American consumers do not consume food products that lack proper controls and may be potentially harmful.

Registration is free on the FDA website and is usually completed within 48 hours. Once you receive the code, it must be included on all shipping documents. Registration must be renewed every two years.

You will also need to appoint an FDA agent, which is mandatory for companies based outside the United States. The agent must reside in the U.S. and formally represents the company in the event of communications or issues. This role facilitates contact between the American authority and the exporting company and ensures timely responses, even in urgent situations.

In 2011, the Food Safety Modernization Act (FSMA) changed the food safety control system. The introduction of the FSMA intensified inspections and expanded the powers of the FDA, which can now order product recalls and temporarily halt production at a facility. The regulation oversees the entire production supply chain, both domestic and foreign, and requires companies to submit a Food Safety Plan to demonstrate the safety of their exports.

In addition to FSMA requirements, products must comply with specific standards, particularly with regard to labeling:

  • Italian or European labels must be translated into English. The Agency defines the required content and format. On the front label, the following information must be included: product name, net weight, allergens, preservatives and colorants, claims, and details about the manufacturer, distributor, or importer.
  • Nutrition facts tables must indicate serving sizes as they are actually consumed in the United States, rather than per 100 g as is standard in Italy.
  • For canned products, low-acid vacuum-packed foods, or artificially acidified products, you must obtain FCE registration, which includes an SID number required to prevent botulism.
  • For foods containing animal proteins that are not fully cooked, such as milk, eggs, or ice cream, you must apply for an import permit.

Even though the process may seem complex, it can be managed easily with the support of specialized professionals. With the right guidance, you will be able to export your Italian specialties to the United States with complete peace of mind.