FDA Food Facility Registration Period Now Open! Answering Your Questions

On September 30, 2022, the United States Food and Drug Administration opened its annual Food Facility Registration Period. The following announcement was released:

Owners, operators, or agents in charge of a domestic or foreign facility engaged in manufacturing/processing, packing, or holding food for consumption by humans or animals in the U.S., are required to register the facility with the FDA. The registration and renewal period is open between October 1 and December 31, 2022.

The FDA will consider the registration of a food facility to be expired if a facility’s registration is not renewed by December 31, 2022. There is no fee associated with registration or renewal. Owners, operators, or agents in charge of food facilities must submit their renewal information electronically through their FDA Industry Systems account, unless they have received a waiver that allows for paper submission.

Why do I need to register my food facility with the FDA?

The FDA requires food facility registration for a variety of reasons, one of the most significant being foodborne illness. In the event of a bioterrorism incident or outbreak of foodborne illness, having an up-to-date record of food facilities allows the FDA to identify possible sources in a timely manner.

What information do I need to complete the food facility registration/renewal process?

In order to register or renew your FDA Food Facility Registration, you must have a unique facility identifier, or UFI. The FDA currently accepts the Data Universal Numbering System (DUNS) number, managed by Dun & Bradstreet, as a valid UFI. A DUNS number can be verified or obtained by visiting the Dun & Bradstreet website.

What if I am part of a small business entity?

The Food and Drug Administration recognizes that small entities may struggle to find accurate and clear guidance on how to comply with food facility registration regulations. To help mitigate this concern, and in accordance with section 212 of the Small Business Regulatory Enforcement Fairness Act, the FDA released a guidance document. This document should only be considered as a series of recommendations unless specific requirements are mentioned.

What if I am looking for other guidance?

The Food and Drug Administration has provided a number of additional resources to provide assistance to those with further questions or concerns about food facility registration. You can find these resources on the announcement page at fda.gov. These resources include fact sheets, step-by-step instructions, and even webinars. Furthermore, the FURLS Helpdesk is also available to provide assistance by phone 1-800-216-7331; or by email at FURLS@fda.gov.

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Disclaimer: All of the above information is taken directly from the Food and Drug Administration and is for informational purposes. None of the above constitutes legal advice. SGL USA is not affiliated with, nor do they represent, the FDA.