The extent of an onsite verification process will be directly related to the complexity of the certification statements required by the foreign country of destination for the product, according to the agencies involved.
Establishment of the export certification program will allow processors access to expanding global markets and support AMS' aim in promoting the marketing of agricultural products.
The program is operated by the US Department of Agriculture (USDA) to certify exports of a wide range of US products containing eggs.
It was established in collaboration with FDA and the paid-for service will be operated by USDA’s Agricultural Marketing Service (AMS).
Onsite verification
Certification procedures require onsite verification by AMS inspectors that the facility employs adequate manufacturing practices and operates under sanitary conditions.
When a foreign government identifies additional import requirements, such as microbiological testing or material to provide assurance that a product is fit for human consumption, the AMS onsite verification will meet the criteria.
Many foreign countries and firms require such certifications as a condition of purchase of imported food to ensure its safety.
USDA regulates liquid, dried and frozen egg products while FDA includes precooked eggs and products such as omelets, patties and hard-cooked eggs.
AMS export certificate
A producing firm can request an AMS export certificate for its facility and individual products in order to facilitate sales to a foreign buyer.
The AMS certificate will identify production lots and will provide assurance that the processing was monitored by a US government agency and conducted under sanitary processing procedures.
The verification of a product will require a minimum of two onsite visits per year, said the AMS.
“If AMS determines that a company meets the established certification requirements, the company will be listed as eligible for export by product and country.
“An eligible company would contact AMS for an export certificate covering accepted product and identify the foreign country,” explained the agency.