The JournalCommerce
Requirements to export food to the U.S.: Complete guide
By Andres Platts · June 5, 2025 · 5 min read · Updated June 10, 2026
Quick answer
Learn about the main requirements for exporting food to the U.S., including FDA registration, FSMA compliance, and labeling standards. Ensure your products meet all food safety regulations to access the American market.
To export food to the United States, you must register with the FDA, comply with the Food Safety Modernization Act (FSMA) including GMPs and, for certain products, HACCP, and meet FDA labeling standards, renewing your FDA registration every two years. The U.S. market offers lucrative opportunities given its size and high demand for food products, but meeting these regulatory requirements, overseen primarily by the FDA and other government agencies, is crucial for your products to enter and thrive.
This blog provides a complete guide on the requirements for exporting food to the United States, from FDA registration to food safety regulations you must meet to ensure your products enter and thrive in the U.S. market.
1. FDA Registration: The First Mandatory Step
One of the key requirements for exporting food to the United States is registering with the FDA . Under the U.S. Food Safety Modernization Act (FSMA), any foreign company wishing to export food to the U.S. must be registered with this agency.
What is FDA Registration?
FDA registration enables the agency to monitor intermediaries involved in the manufacturing, labeling, packaging, and storage of food products entering the U.S. market, including both finished products and food ingredients.
Who Needs to Register?
- Food manufacturers
- Packers
- Distributors
- Warehouses handling products for export to the U.S.
How to Register with the FDA
The registration can be completed online through the FDA's website, but with our support, we ensure the process is fast, accurate, and hassle-free. Companies must provide basic information about their location, products, and production processes. Registration must also be renewed every two years.
2. Food Safety Regulations: FSMA Compliance
The FSMA is one of the most critical regulations for companies exporting food to the United States. Implemented by the FDA, this law focuses on preventing food contamination, requiring exporters to comply with strict food safety standards.
Good Manufacturing Practices (GMPs):
FSMA requires implementing GMPs to ensure the hygienic conditions necessary for producing safe food. These include:
- Cleaning and sanitizing equipment and work areas
- Employee hygiene training
- Pest control
- Appropriate use of approved ingredients and additives
Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Points (HACCP):
The HACCP system is mandatory for certain food products like seafood, shellfish, and juices, though recommended for all food exporters. It identifies critical control points in the production process where contamination risks exist and establishes corrective measures.
Foreign Supplier Verification Program (FSVP):
Importers or commercial partners in the U.S. must comply with the FSVP to ensure imported products meet FDA safety standards. This involves verifying foreign suppliers adhere to GMPs and that food is free from contaminants.
3. Labeling and Packaging: FDA Requirements for Exporting Food
The FDA regulates food labeling in the U.S., so products must be correctly labeled to comply with its requirements.
It identifies critical control points in the production process where contamination risks exist and establishes corrective measures.
Mandatory Information on Labels
- 01Product Name: Clear and descriptive.
- 02Ingredient Declaration: List all ingredients in descending order of predominance.
- 03Net Content: Indicate the quantity of the product in U.S. units (ounces, pounds, etc.).
- 04Manufacturer or Distributor Information: Include the name and address of the manufacturer, packer, or distributor.
- 05Nutritional Information: Provide a Nutrition Facts panel detailing calories, fats, carbohydrates, proteins, vitamins, and other nutrients per serving.
Warnings and Allergens:
Products must include warnings for common allergens like peanuts, tree nuts, wheat, milk, eggs, fish, and shellfish. If processed in facilities handling these allergens, it must be disclosed on the label.
The flexible structure most founders choose, set up for your state.
4. Additional Certifications and Sanitary Requirements
In addition to FDA regulations, specific certifications may be required depending on the type of food and market.
Organic Certification:
If exporting organic food, products must be certified under the USDA’s National Organic Program (NOP) . This ensures products are grown without synthetic pesticides, chemical fertilizers, or genetically modified organisms (GMOs).
Sanitary Inspections:
Certain products, like meat, require sanitary inspections from agencies like the USDA’s Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) .
Agricultural Product Requirements:
Fresh produce must meet phytosanitary standards and may undergo quarantine treatments to prevent pests or diseases. Certificates from exporting country authorities may also be required.
5. Customs Process and Clearance
Meeting FDA regulations isn’t enough, you must also comply with U.S. customs requirements.
Customs Declaration and Tariff Payments:
Each shipment must include a customs declaration detailing the quantity, value, and nature of the products. In some cases, tariffs and import taxes may apply depending on the product type.
Customs Brokers and Commercial Partners:
Working with a reliable customs broker simplifies the import process, ensuring proper documentation and smooth border inspections. U.S.-based commercial partners, or your own U.S. company, can also help meet market deadlines and regulations.
6. How Can Prodezk Help with Licenses and Permits for Exporting Food to the U.S.?
Our team of experts provides comprehensive guidance to ensure your products enter the U.S. market safely and efficiently.
FDA Registration Assistance:
We streamline the FDA registration process for your company, ensuring accuracy and compliance with biannual renewal requirements.
License Acquisition:
Different food products require specific licenses and permits for export. We help determine the necessary permits for your specific products, whether processed foods, fresh produce, or beverages.
Food Safety Compliance:
We assist in implementing GMPs and HACCP plans, ensuring your products meet FDA food safety standards.
Ongoing Support and Regulatory Updates:
Regulations change over time. We provide continuous support, keeping you updated on changes that could affect your business.
7. Conclusion
Exporting food to the United States requires meeting strict food safety, labeling, and certification standards, as well as registering with the FDA . Compliance ensures your products enter the U.S. market without complications.
If you want to ensure your company meets all requirements for exporting food to the U.S., contact us. We offer comprehensive assistance with FDA registration, FSMA compliance, labeling, and more to safely and efficiently bring your food products to the U.S. market.
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