Understanding the FDA Country of Production: A Legal Overview

Definition & Meaning

The term FDA Country of Production refers to the location where food products are grown, harvested, or collected before being shipped to the United States. For food in its natural state, this is the country of origin. In the case of wild fish or seafood caught outside U.S. waters by non-U.S. registered vessels, the country of production is where the vessel is registered. If the food was produced in a U.S. territory, it is considered to be produced in the United States.

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Real-world examples

Here are a couple of examples of abatement:

Example 1: A shipment of strawberries grown in Mexico and harvested for export to the U.S. would have Mexico listed as the FDA Country of Production.

Example 2: A fishing vessel registered in Japan that catches tuna in the Pacific Ocean would have Japan as the FDA Country of Production for that tuna. (hypothetical example)

Comparison with related terms

Term Definition Difference
Country of Origin The country where a product is manufactured or produced. FDA Country of Production specifically applies to food products and includes additional considerations for natural state foods and wild fish.
Place of Manufacture The location where a product is physically made. Place of manufacture may not account for the sourcing of raw materials, while FDA Country of Production focuses on the origin of food items.

What to do if this term applies to you

If you are involved in importing or distributing food products, ensure that you accurately identify the FDA Country of Production for compliance. Utilizing US Legal Forms can provide you with the necessary templates and resources to navigate these regulations effectively. If your situation is complex, consider consulting a legal professional for tailored advice.

Quick facts

  • Jurisdiction: Federal (FDA regulations)
  • Typical Fees: Varies based on compliance requirements
  • Possible Penalties: Fines for mislabeling or non-compliance

Key takeaways

Frequently asked questions

It is the country where food products are grown, harvested, or collected before being shipped to the U.S.