4 Key Considerations for Importing Food Products to the USA for Resale

Grocery chains and food and beverage companies nationwide want to be able to import food into the country from overseas for a few reasons. For one, it’s often cheaper than producing it at home. Some fruits and vegetables also can’t be grown in the United States. 

But international food trade can be complicated. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), for example, has a number of requirements for food imported in the country. Spoilage is also a major risk for food products traveling a long distance.

Here are some factors worth keeping in mind if your company plans to import food products into the USA for resale.

1. Navigating FDA Regulations

At the most basic level, the FDA’s job as it relates to imports is stopping food of poor quality from ending up in the refrigerators of consumers. 

Non-perishable items are typically somewhat easier to import. In contrast, foods considered high-risk, like meat and dairy products, are often subject to testing by the FDA before they can be re-sold. In some cases, the FDA may also require the company importing the foods to provide prior notice. 

Companies hoping to import food products into the USA for resale also can’t afford to ignore FDA labeling requirements. Foods containing allergens, for example, must be clearly labeled. Keeping up with the FDA’s requirements for imported food might sound challenging. Fortunately, help is available.

2. Choosing the Right Vendor to Handle Your 3PL Food Logistics

Complying with all of the requirements above doesn’t have to be a major burden for your organization. A food and beverage warehousing vendor with experience handling imported foods can serve as a key strategic partner for any company exploring importing food products to the USA for resale.

As you explore new 3PL vendors to help your company with importing food, you should ask the following questions:

• Do you have experience navigating customs requirements and managing documentation for imported foods?
• What systems do you have to keep our perishable items safe and free from contaminants? 
• Do you offer services such as inventory management software and distribution centers?
• Is your warehouse facility FDA-registered? 

A comprehensive response to the last question should be a top priority for any company considering importing food products to the USA for resale. FDA-registered 3PL food logistics warehouses are designed for optimal sanitation, pest control, and temperature management to minimize the risk of FDA inspections and product recalls.

3. Maintaining Product Quality and Traceability

Just like all of the other considerations we’ve gone over already, you can’t skimp on keeping food fresh and contaminant free while it’s still in your company’s possession. 

Detailed documentation and record-keeping are vital when importing food to the USA for resale. This ensures a transparent chain of custody, meeting both regulatory and consumer expectations. 

Additionally, safeguarding food and beverages whether during warehousing or transit is crucial. This involves utilizing temperature-controlled logistics, a regulatory must-have that also preserves food freshness and safety. Advanced technologies like real-time temperature monitoring are key, allowing for ongoing supervision and immediate response to any temperature deviations, thus extending product shelf life and maintaining high safety standards.

4. Staying Informed and Compliant

To ensure you meet all FDA food import requirements, staying informed and compliant with evolving regulations is crucial. Businesses must continuously monitor FDA updates and adapt to changes in import regulations, not just for compliance but to seize opportunities and minimize risks. Proactive engagement with the FDA is key when importing food to the USA for resale, as it helps you get insights and guidance for navigating these complexities. 

Beyond regulatory vigilance, it’s never a bad idea to seek out in-person and online events about logistics for imported food products. Experts at these events often share strategies your company can put in place in just days that can revolutionize your company’s food supply chain. 

Learn More

Cummins Logistics wants to make life simpler for your company. Our warehouse in Commerce, CA is FDA-registered, and our team has more than 45 years of experience in handling all of the documentation related to imported foods. Talk with one of our experts today!