It seems like “delay” has become the word most often associated with the Food Safety Modernization Act (FSMA). Last next, we reported here on the Food Liability Law blog that starting on October 1, 2012, food facilities would be required to begin the biennial re-registration process in order to comply with the provisions of the FSMA. However, it looks like we may have spoken too soon.
On September 28, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) posted the following on its website:
Biennial Registration Renewal for Food Facilities will not be available on October 1, 2012. We therefore will not be accepting food facility registration renewals at this time. Please check FDA’s website at http://www.access.fda.gov at a later date or sign up for FSMA updates to be informed when it becomes available.
FDA decided to delay the registration period mandated by FSMA after receiving numerous requests from the Grocery Manufacturers Association and other trade associations seeking further guidance in meeting the registration requirements.
As noted in our earlier post, FSMA now requires that food facilities re-register every 2 years with FDA. The law states that the registration period will begin on October 1 and end on December 31 during even numbered years.
At this time, FDA is recommending that food companies check the agency’s website to know when the registration renewal will become available.