4 Things to Know About the Food Safety Modernization Act

The Food Safety Modernization Act has been in effect since President Obama signed it into law in 2011.

But, what does this act actually do? And how can the FSMA rules affect your business? Read on for all the facts you need.

1. The FSMA Protects Some Food (But Not All)

Contrary to popular belief, the Food Safety Modernization Act doesn’t regulate all food safety in the United States. It only applies to foods that are regulated by the Food and Drug Administration.

Commercial farming facilities, for example, are governed by the FSMA. Other facilities subject to the FSMA include different types of food processors, importers, storage facilities, and transporters. The FSMA does apply to small and very small businesses, but they were given more time to first comply with the requirements, and different rules apply to them.

The FSMA allows the FDA more control over imported foods, too, but in different ways. For example, the FDA is allowed to deny entry to some imports if their rules aren’t carefully followed. They can also require that foods that are at higher risk of safety issues get specially certified.

2. Preventative Controls For Humans and Animals

The most important part of the Food Safety Modernization Act is that it aims to prevent diseases caused by contamination in food. Essentially, the FSMA requires food businesses to evaluate what possible risks to US food safety they may have, and institute controls to prevent any of these dangers from affecting public health.

So, make sure that everyone at your business understands the importance of preventative controls. Stay up to date on your Food Safety Modernization Act training. Check out your PCQI training options for more.

3. Compliance With the FSMA Is Important for Business

If you have a business in the food industry, you’ll need to know the rules of the FSMA carefully. The Food and Drug Administration will monitor your business and products to make sure that you’re complying with the rules. The FDA can issue public warnings to different businesses and set an amount of time for you to comply.

If you don’t, you can face many harsh penalties, from the FDA and other bodies. These could include product recalls, suspending the registration of facilities with repeated violations, and seizing products they think may be contaminated.

In some cases, those involved could be subject to arrest and could face criminal charges.

4. The FSMA Works To Prevent Intentional Contamination

In some cases, bad actors may try and intentionally contaminate the food supply. This rule requires most larger companies to come up with a strict plan to prevent anyone from intentionally contaminating the food in their facilities.

The FSMA can also apply to contamination caused by radiation.

Food Safety Modernization Act: Now You Know

Hopefully, now you understand the Food Safety Modernization Act and why it’s important.

Are you looking for more information on different laws and regulations? Make sure you scroll through the rest of this site for more of what you need.