ISFS2+10 Document: Key Requirement for Exporting Spanish Food Products to the U.S. Market

 The ISFS2+10 (International Sanitary Food Standard 2+10) document, a crucial regulatory certification, has become a central requirement for Spanish food exporters seeking to enter the United States market. This document plays a pivotal role in ensuring compliance with U.S. food safety and import regulations, as it aligns with the stringent standards set by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Spanish exporters must adhere to this protocol to streamline their export processes and avoid delays or product rejections.

 

The ISFS2+10 certification is specifically designed for food products, verifying that all shipments meet the necessary sanitary conditions for international trade. It is required for a wide range of products, including meat, dairy, seafood, processed foods, and beverages, ensuring they are free from contamination and meet the health and safety guidelines outlined by U.S. authorities.

 

Key Elements of the ISFS2+10 Document:

1. Product Sanitation Certification: The document certifies that the food products have been produced, stored, and transported under hygienic conditions in compliance with international standards.
    
2. Origin Verification: It includes details regarding the product’s origin, which is crucial for establishing traceability, particularly for products with Protected Designation of Origin (PDO) such as Spanish olive oil, cheese, and wine.
    
3. Compliance with U.S. FDA Standards: The ISFS2+10 ensures that the food complies with the Food Safety Modernization Act (FSMA), a key FDA regulation focusing on preventive controls and risk-based assessments.
    
4. Veterinary and Agricultural Certifications: For products like meat and seafood, the document includes veterinary health certificates that confirm the absence of animal diseases, while for agricultural goods, pesticide use and environmental impact must also be documented.
    
5. Packaging and Labeling Requirements: It verifies that packaging meets U.S. requirements, such as nutritional labeling, allergen information, and the inclusion of expiration dates.
    

Importance for Spanish Exporters:

Securing the ISFS2+10 certification is not only mandatory but also beneficial for Spanish companies looking to expand their footprint in the highly competitive U.S. market. By complying with U.S. import standards, exporters can enhance their product credibility and reduce potential barriers at customs. Products without the ISFS2+10 document risk facing delays, detentions, or rejection by U.S. authorities, which could result in financial losses.

 

How to Obtain the ISFS2+10 Document:

In the U.S., the responsibility for ensuring that imported food products comply with regulations, including the requirements associated with the ISFS (International Sanitary Food Standard), falls primarily on the importer. The importer must ensure that all necessary certifications, including the ISFS2+10, are obtained from the exporting company in Spain and are compliant with the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) regulations.

 

The importer of record is responsible for ensuring that all imported food products meet U.S. safety standards, including verifying that documents like the ISFS2+10 are properly prepared and submitted. This importer is typically a U.S.-based company or a representative, such as a customs broker, who acts on behalf of the exporter to handle all necessary documentation and clearances with U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) and the FDA.

 

In some cases, collaboration with the FDA may be necessary to ensure that the products meet the Food Safety Modernization Act (FSMA) requirements.

 

 

Conclusion:

In the complex process of obtaining the ISFS2+10 certification and ensuring compliance with U.S. regulations, TWeE grupo stands out as a key partner for Spanish exporters. With extensive expertise in navigating international trade and regulatory frameworks, TWeE Grupo can streamline the certification process, ensuring that all necessary documentation, including ISFS2+10, is handled efficiently and accurately.

 

What sets TWeE grupo apart is its deep understanding of both U.S. and European regulatory landscapes, which allows it to act as a reliable liaison between Spanish food producers and U.S. importers. The group offers comprehensive support, from managing inspections and audits required by the Spanish Ministry of Agriculture to ensuring compliance with FDA standards like the Food Safety Modernization Act (FSMA). By partnering with TWeE grupo, exporters can mitigate the risk of delays, rejections, and financial losses, while enhancing their credibility in the competitive U.S. market.

 

TWeE grupo’s personalized service and proactive approach ensure that Spanish exporters can focus on growing their business, confident that all regulatory and compliance needs are professionally managed.