April 27, 2004

FDA Publishes Proposed Rule on
Private Laboratories for Import Testing

FDA is proposing new regulations for persons who use sampling services (services that collect samples for another party) and private laboratories used in connection with imported food. The proposal would require samples to be properly identified, collected, and maintained. Additionally, the proposal would require laboratories to use validated or recognized analytical methods, and to submit analytical results directly to FDA. The proposal is intended to help assure the integrity and scientific validity of data and results submitted to FDA. Written or electronic comments may be submitted until July 28, 2004. Written or electronic comments on the information collection provisions must be submitted by May 29, 2004. All submissions received must include the agency name and Docket No. (2002N-0085) or Regulatory Information Number (RIN) (0910-AB96) for this rulemaking.

The complete Federal Register notice for this proposed rule is on CFSAN's website at http://www.cfsan.fda.gov/~lrd/fr040429.html.

FDA Updates Guidance on Harmonized Tariff Codes

FDA has updated the guidance for industry, titled "Prior Notice of Imported Food: Harmonized Tariff Schedule Codes Flagged with Prior Notice Indicators." FDA is issuing this guidance to inform the food industry which HTS codes have been "flagged" in CBP entry systems with prior notice indicators. The complete guidance is on CFSAN's website at http://www.cfsan.fda.gov/~dms/htsguid2.html.