Bill would let FDA order destruction of unsafe imported food

What does this do?

The bill broadens how the FDA can use accredited third-party audits, letting it apply them to a "trusted importer" program and risk-based inspection priorities, not just import clearance. It also eases FDA sharing of food safety data with state, local, tribal, and territorial health agencies, and gives FDA authority to order destruction of imported food refused entry for posing a significant public health risk.

Who does it affect?

Food producers and importers, both foreign and domestic, along with private auditing companies are directly affected. Public health agencies at all government levels, and indirectly consumers, are also affected.

Why does it matter?

Broader use of audits and faster data sharing could speed up risk targeting and outbreak response. Importers facing destruction orders would lose the option to re-export rejected goods and must cover destruction costs themselves.

What does it cost, and who pays?

• Importer pays for destruction
• 90 days to destroy after order
• Appeal allowed before destruction