by adminUSDA & FDA Compliance: How Inspections Are Carried Out in Cold Storage Facilities
When handling food and agricultural imports, compliance with USDA (United States Department of Agriculture) and FDA (Food and Drug Administration) regulations is not just a box to check—it’s a critical aspect of operating a trusted and legal supply chain. These agencies work to ensure that products entering or stored in the U.S. are safe, wholesome, and properly handled. For cold storage facilities, this means strict adherence to handling procedures, documentation protocols, and readiness for inspections at any time.
Understanding USDA and FDA Roles
The USDA typically oversees meat, poultry, and egg products, as well as certain fresh produce and plant-based goods. The FDA, on the other hand, regulates a broader range of food products (excluding those under USDA), including dairy, seafood, packaged foods, and dietary supplements.
Together, these agencies enforce food safety laws, requiring facilities to maintain clean environments, accurate records, and strict control over how products are received, stored, and shipped.
What Happens During an Inspection?
Inspections from the USDA or FDA can be scheduled or unannounced, and the scope may vary depending on the product type, facility size, or import volume. Here’s what a typical inspection might involve:
- Document Review
Inspectors will review import documentation, lot codes, shipping records, and traceability logs. USDA inspections may also include verification of import permits, phytosanitary certificates, or meat inspection stamps. - Facility Walkthrough
The inspector will tour the facility to observe cleanliness, temperature control, pest control procedures, and sanitation practices. They’ll ensure that coolers and freezers are functioning correctly and that cross-contamination risks are minimized. - Product Sampling
In some cases, inspectors may pull samples from incoming shipments to test for contaminants, bacteria, or compliance with labeling laws. - Corrective Actions
If any violations or inconsistencies are found, the facility is expected to take immediate corrective action. Repeated or severe non-compliance may result in warning letters, fines, or import holds.
Maintaining Compliance at Our Facility
Our Santa Clara cold storage facility is fully equipped and certified to handle USDA and FDA inspections. Here’s how we stay ahead:
- Temperature Monitoring: We use automated systems to track and log temperatures 24/7, with alerts for any deviation.
- Sanitation Protocols: Strict cleaning schedules and third-party audits ensure our facility stays spotless and pest-free.
- Trained Staff: Our team receives ongoing training in food safety, documentation standards, and emergency response.
- Digital Traceability: Every product is logged and traceable via barcode and tracking software to ensure full transparency.
We also maintain an I-house number (I-95), making it easy for inspectors to associate our facility with import operations requiring USDA clearance.
Why It Matters
Compliance isn’t just about passing inspections—it’s about protecting public health and maintaining trust with customers, retailers, and regulators. Working with a compliant facility reduces your risk exposure, ensures product quality, and keeps your supply chain moving without delays.
Whether you’re new to importing or looking to improve your logistics chain, partnering with a facility that takes USDA and FDA compliance seriously is a smart and necessary move.