The Federal Drug Administration has issued final regulations for exactly how the Food Safety Modernization Act (FSMA) will be implemented. The changes, while not onerous, impact day-to-day operations along the entire coffee supply chain. The new rules are the most sweeping reform in 70 years. The intent is to prevent food safety problems before they occur.
Coffee importers should visit www.fda.gov (FSMA) to review the Final Rule for Preventative Controls for Human Food with compliance dates beginning in September 2016.
In the February-March issue, STiR Tea & Coffee will take a close look at FSMA implemention at coffee ports.