FSIS periodically reviews inspection systems in eligible countries to assure they continue to meet U.S. requirements. Review frequency is based on the country's performance history. How Plants Become Eligible to Export The chief inspection official in an eligible country is responsible for certifying annually to FSIS the names of individual plants that meet all applicable standards and are authorized to export to the United States. The United States imports from 2.4 to 2.8 billion pounds of meat and poultry annually, always less than 10 percent of the domestic meat supply. Click here for the most recent weekly data on imported meat and poultry by country.
Similar requirements are in place for products from countries where other diseases exist.
Labels on retail packages of meat or poultry shipped to the United States must meet U.S. labeling requirements. Import inspectors may accept some single ingredient product labels. However, all other labels require advance approval from FSIS in sketch form. For more specific information on labels, contact the FSIS Food Labeling Division shown below. Certified foreign plants should obtain label approvals before preparing products for export.