The good news is the import verification program will reduce delays in receiving imported products, explains Cabrera, but stresses the importance of staying up to date on the paperwork and recordkeeping of the mandated food safety requirements.
At the Perishable Specialist, implementation began last May, and Ramos is “happy to report our customers are 100 percent in compliance.” Ramos is a firm proponent of the FDA’s Food Safety Plan Builder, a free software program that can help companies create their food safety plan.
Other Safety Measures
Other legislation is impacting produce businesses too, such as changes to the Automated Commercial Environment, known as ACE, for border crossings. Compres says the CPB and USDA continue to work together to provide transparency and streamline border crossing documentation.
Unfortunately, she notes, there continue to be “delays in release [of product] and a lack of visibility” which in turn create “redundancies in communication and follow-up with government agencies.”
Staying Sunny
Despite the unprecedented bombardment of weather incidents last year, and the ever-present challenges they present for the industry, those in Miami continue to look to the sunny side of things.
Even with the recent spate of setbacks, the resounding echo among produce dealers was one of thankfulness that the losses weren’t worse, and unity, to help those in need.
For better or worse, Miami’s buyers and sellers are in it for the long haul, as the benefits far outweigh the pain points.
“Not only is Miami one of the few areas in the United States where tropical fruit and vegetables can be grown, but it’s also a key transportation hub and point of entry for imports from around the world,” says Holbik.
Ramos simply says, “We are proud to call Miami home.”
Image: Jarvna/Shutterstock.com
