Adapting to FSMA Compliance: How Validus (a division of Where Food Comes From) Empowers Industry Compliance

Understanding the Food Safety Modernization Act

The Food Safety Modernization Act (FSMA) passed into law January 4th, 2011, represents a significant shift in food safety regulations, emphasizing prevention rather than reaction to foodborne illnesses. FSMA requires food facilities to register with the FDA and implement preventive controls, which include:

• Hazard analysis and risk-based preventive controls

• Monitoring procedures and corrective actions

• Comprehensive record-keeping systems

• Sanitation procedures and temperature controls to prevent pathogen growth

  
  

FSMA regulations apply not only to domestic food facilities but also to foreign suppliers exporting to the U.S. The law grants the FDA increased inspection authority, with high-risk facilities inspected every three years and others every five years.

Current Update on FSMA Compliance

On November 21, 2022, the FDA published the Final Rule titled “Requirements for Additional Traceability Records for Certain Foods.” Initially, the compliance deadline for this rule was set for January 20, 2026. However, the FDA announced its intention to extend the deadline into 2028. This extension aims to provide businesses with more time to integrate comprehensive traceability measures. One of the recommended approaches includes using GS1 Standards to enhance traceability and compliance.

Key FSMA Requirements

1. Preventive Controls and Food Safety Plans:

   FSMA mandates food businesses to develop and implement written food safety plans, a major shift from previous regulations. These plans must include:

   
   

   • Written procedures for monitoring preventive controls

   • Corrective action protocols

   • Verification procedures

   • Regular equipment maintenance and calibration to ensure process accuracy

     
     

2. Enhanced Traceability Requirements:

   Under FSMA’s Final Rule, food businesses must improve their ability to trace food products throughout the supply chain. The FDA recently extended the compliance date for the Food Traceability Rule by 30-months to allow businesses additional time for full implementation.

   
   

3. Increased Inspections and Compliance Monitoring:

   FSMA requires more frequent inspections of food facilities, with the frequency based on risk factors. Additionally, businesses must maintain detailed records to facilitate FDA inspections.

   
   

4. Accredited Third-Party Certification Rule

   FSMA establishes a voluntary program for third-party certification bodies (CBs) to conduct food safety audits and issue certifications. These certifications help importers establish eligibility for the Voluntary Qualified Importer Program (VQIP), which expedites the entry of food imports. 

How Validus Helps with FSMA Compliance 

Validus, a division of Where Food Comes From, is a leading third-party verification provider, offering solutions and expertise to help food businesses comply with FSMA regulations. Validus services include: 

1. Third-Party Certification and Auditing 

   Validus provides accredited food safety certifications such as:

   
   

   • SQF (Safe Quality Food) - Covering Eggs, Milk, Meat, Feed and Pet Food  

   • Safe Feed/Safe Food – compliance to FSMA for feed and pet food  

   SQF is an excellent foundational claim that supports FSMA compliance within the scope of traceability but also provides comprehensive coverage, benefiting your operation. For example, SQF certification covers areas such as food safety management, risk assessment, and quality control, helping businesses maintain consistent product quality while meeting regulatory requirements. 

   
   

2. Consulting and Compliance Support through Where Food Comes From: Food Safety and Risk Assessment 

   
   

3. Bundling FSMA Compliance with Other Claims: Businesses can strengthen product integrity and marketability by bundling their FSMA compliance with other verification claims with Validus and Where Food Comes, such as: 

   
   

   • Non-GMO Project Verified 

   • Source Verified 

   • CARE Certified (Animal Welfare, Environmental Stewardship, and Community Support) 

   • Organic Certification 

   • Upcycled Certified 

     
     

Why Work with a Third-Party Verifier? 

Using a third-party verifier like Validus and Where Food Comes From provides numerous benefits, including: 

• Streamlined Compliance: Ensure your food safety plan meets FSMA requirements 

• Market Differentiation: Build trust with consumers through verified claims 

• Regulatory Readiness: Be prepared for FDA inspections with comprehensive documentation 

• Improved Supply Chain Transparency: Enhance traceability and food safety monitoring 

Who Needs to Comply with FSMA? 

The FSMA applies to a broad range of businesses, including: 

• Farmers and Producers 

• Food Manufacturers and Processors 

• Growers and Importers 

• Food Transporters 

Stay Ahead of FSMA Regulations with Third-Party Verification 

Navigating FSMA compliance can be complex, but Validus and Where Food Comes From is here to help. Our expertise in third-party verification, traceability, and food safety certifications ensures that your business remains compliant while strengthening consumer trust in your products. 

Contact Us Today 

Get in touch with our team to learn more about how we can help you meet FSMA compliance requirements while adding value to your brand.