These regulations established that foreign facilities that manufacture, process, pack, or warehouse food for human or animal consumption register with the FDA prior to sending its shipment. Companies located outside of the United States must designate a U.S. Agent for U.S. FDA communications.
The purpose of this regulation is to protect the United States population against a possible terrorism attack on the U.S. supply chain.
Prior notice is required before food or beverage shipments enter the United States. This notice can be given online or by fax. The FDA will issue a bar-coded confirmation number.