What does 21 CFR 1.281 require for prior notice of imported food?

21 CFR 1.281 requires that prior notice of imported food include specific information, such as the name of the individual submitting the notice, the identity of the article of food, and the anticipated arrival information.

"The name of the individual submitting the prior notice and his/her business address, phone number, and e-mail address, and the name and address of the submitting firm, if applicable." (21 CFR 1.281(a)(1))

"The identity of the article of food being imported or offered for import, as follows: (i) The complete FDA product code; (ii) The common or usual name or market name; (iii) The estimated quantity of food that will be shipped, described from largest container to smallest package size; and (iv) The lot or code numbers or other identifier of the food if required by the Act or FDA regulations..." (21 CFR 1.281(a)(5))

In practice, this means that importers must submit detailed information about the food they are bringing into the United States, including its origin, destination, and expected arrival time, to allow FDA to assess potential risks and take action if necessary.

• Submit prior notice to FDA for each imported food article before arrival at the port of entry, except for food arriving by international mail or carried by an individual.
• Ensure all required information is included in the prior notice, such as the name and address of the submitter, the identity of the article of food, and anticipated arrival information.
• Resubmit prior notice to FDA if any required information changes after the initial submission is confirmed.