Renewal of FDA Food Facility Registration Due by Dec. 31, 2024
Trade Update • Nov. 25, 2024
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has issued a reminder to importers and consignees of certain foods about the upcoming compliance deadline for the Laboratory Accreditation for Analyses of Foods (LAAF) program. Beginning December 1, 2024, analyses for mycotoxins in certain imported foods must be conducted using laboratories accredited under the LAAF program.
What is the LAAF Program?
The LAAF program, established under the Food Safety Modernization Act (FSMA), is designed to enhance the accuracy and reliability of specific food testing through standardized procedures and increased FDA oversight of participating laboratories. The program ensures that testing is conducted with a high level of quality and integrity, supporting public health and food safety efforts.
Under the LAAF program, certain testing requirements—such as those used to address food safety issues or support the removal of foods from import alerts—must be performed by laboratories accredited by the FDA. The program applies to various testing needs, including mycotoxins, pathogens, and chemical contaminants.
Key Requirements for Compliance
Starting December 1, 2024, the following groups must ensure compliance with the LAAF program:
- Importers and consignees of foods subject to the final rule.
- Testing laboratories seeking FDA accreditation to conduct analyses for regulated foods.
The FDA emphasizes the importance of using LAAF-accredited labs for tests related to regulatory compliance, particularly when addressing import safety concerns.
To comply with the LAAF program:
- Verify Accreditation: Ensure that the laboratory performing your food analyses is LAAF-accredited.
- Review Requirements: Familiarize yourself with the specific testing obligations outlined in the final rule.
- Utilize FDA Resources: Access the FDA’s tools, such as the LAAF Program Dashboard, to locate accredited laboratories and monitor program updates.
For questions about applying or implementing the LAAF program – email us at: gts@ghy.com, or call: +1 (800) 667-0771
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