Summary
In this 1 hr 41 min module you’ll get a comprehensive overview of the U.S. regulatory landscape for importing food, beverages and dietary supplements. We start with the “Big Six” principle—that foreign producers must meet the same standards as U.S.-based firms—then dive into each major enforcement agency (FDA, USDA, CBP, CDC, EPA, TTB), their key statutes and import requirements, and how they work together to keep the supply chain safe and compliant. By the end, you’ll have the roadmap you need to navigate the U.S. regulatory “minefield” with confidence.
What You’ll Learn
By the end of this module you will be able to:
- Explain the “Big Six” principle and why foreign food & supplement exporters must operate under U.S.-level standards.
- Identify the role and authority of each agency:
- FDA (registration, FSVP, labelling)
- USDA (import permits, FMIA, organic/plant protection)
- CBP (entry inspections, tariffs, FSMA/FSVP enforcement)
- CDC (foodborne illness surveillance, PulseNet, FoodNet)
- EPA (pesticide residues, water quality, TSCA)
- TTB (alcoholic beverage labelling & formulas)
- Map out key statutes and requirements per product category (e.g., dietary supplements, processed foods, dairy, seafood, additives, eggs, medical foods).
- Distinguish modified FSVP and small-business labelling allowances versus full-requirements.
- Outline the USDA import-permit process for meat, poultry, dairy and plant products.
- Describe how agencies coordinate at ports of entry and during food-safety crises.
- Apply a compliance “checklist” to your own products before shipping to the U.S.
Curriculum
| Module | Topic | Duration |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Welcome & “Big Six” Principle | 5 min |
| 2 | US FDA: Registration, FSVP & Labelling Rules | 20 min |
| 3 | USDA: Meat, Poultry, Organic & Plant Protection Acts | 15 min |
| 4 | US CBP: Gatekeeper Role, Tariffs & FSMA Enforcement | 15 min |
| 5 | CDC, EPA & TTB: Public Health, Environmental & Alcohol Regulations | 15 min |
| 6 | FDA-Regulated Categories: Supplements, Foods & Beverages | 10 min |
| 7 | USDA-Regulated Categories: Import Permits & Inspection Requirements | 10 min |
| 8 | Agency Coordination & Creating Your Compliance “Map” | 6 min |
| 9 | Module Wrap-Up & Next Steps | 5 min |
Course Details
- Length: 1 hr 41 min video
- Format: Self-paced video + downloadable PDF checklist
- Access: Available 24/7 on the GIA Learning Platform
- Prerequisite: None, suitable for both importers and foreign exporters
Ready to become a Gold-Standard U.S. importer?
Enroll now and get your compliance roadmap, no prior U.S. experience required!To access our courses you need to Register first, click on the module below to register, or click here.
