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Temporary Policy Regarding Accredited Third-Party Certification Program Onsite Observation and Certificate Duration Requirements Due to COVID-19 : Guidance for Industry

FinalHuman Foods Program Center for Veterinary Medicine Office of Inspections and Investigations07/13/2023

Description

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA or the Agency) plays a critical role in protecting the United States from threats such as emerging infectious diseases, including the Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic. FDA is committed to providing timely guidance to support response efforts to this pandemic.

Scope & Applicability

Stakeholders

7
audit agents

Personnel conducting food safety audits under the regulation.

eligible entity

Entities receiving food or facility certificates under the program.

accredited CB

Accredited third-party certification body; CB accredited under TPP

recognized AB

Recognized Accreditation Bodies monitoring accredited Certification Bodies.

Eligible Foreign Entity

Entities receiving food safety audits and certifications

Certification Body

Accredited bodies that conduct food safety audits

Accreditation Body

Assesses testing laboratories under ASCA Pilot; Entities involved in the ASCA Pilot

Regulatory Context

Attributes

1
Certificate Duration

Requirement that certificates be issued for a term up to 12 months

Identified Hazards

Hazards

1
COVID-19

Public health concern causing travel restrictions and impracticability of onsite activities.

Related CFR Sections (5)

See Also (8)