On Jan. 16, 2026, a warning letter, the Food and Drug Administration outlined significant violations of the Foreign Supplier Verification Program (FSVP) regulation found during an inspection of East CK Trading Inc. from Oct. 17 through Nov. 25, 2025, in Long Island City, NY. Prior inspections occurred from Nov. 21, 2024, to Jan. 28, 2025, and Sept. 20 to Oct. 3, 2023.
The FSVP rule requires importers to conduct risk-based activities to verify that imported foods are produced in a manner that meets U.S. food safety standards.
The FDA determined the company failed to develop, maintain, and follow an FSVP as required. Specifically, no FSVP was developed for any imported foods, including:
Ginseng from supplier Amazing International Trade (Dalian) Co. Ltd. in China.
Wolfberry from supplier Gui Nan Hong Co. Ltd. in Hong Kong SAR.
Mushroom Seasoning from supplier Anhui Qiangwang Flavouring Food Co. Ltd. in China.
At the conclusion of the inspection, the FDA issued a Form FDA 483a. The company responded Nov. 20, 2025, stating a third-party FSVP Qualified Individual would assist in developing and implementing an FSVP program. FDA deemed the response inadequate, as no supporting documentation (e.g., revised FSVP plans or records) was provided.
Noncompliance may result in refusal of admission for implicated foods, placement on detention without physical examination (DWPE), or other actions. Importing food without a compliant FSVP is a prohibited act.
The company is responsible for ensuring compliance. It must respond in writing within 15 working days with specific corrective steps, timelines, and supporting documentation (e.g., copies of developed FSVPs and implementation records).
The full warning letter can be viewed here.”
Source: Food Safety News
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