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Issue of the Month

USDA Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) Label “Approval Process”

Understanding Generic Approval, LPDS Review, and FSIS Label Compliance

By Jonathan Morse, EAS Consulting Group Independent Consultant

For meat, poultry, and egg product manufacturers, label compliance is more than a marketing exercise, it is a regulatory requirement. FSIS requires product labels to be truthful, not misleading, and compliant with applicable regulations before products can enter commerce. While many labels qualify for generic approval and can be approved in-house, labels containing special statements or claims often require review by FSIS’s Labeling and Program Delivery Staff (LPDS).

This month’s article explores the difference between generic approval, sketch approval, and temporary label approvals, while outlining the recordkeeping responsibilities establishments must maintain for both FSIS-approved and generically approved labels. The article also highlights common areas where companies can encounter compliance challenges and why maintaining accurate labeling records remains critical during FSIS verification activities.

Whether you are developing a new product, updating an existing label, or evaluating special claims such as “organic,” “natural,” or production-related statements, understanding the FSIS label approval process can help reduce delays and support ongoing compliance.

Under the Microscope

How To Create a Nutrition Facts Panel for My Product

Reviewed by Tim Lombardo, Senior Director, Food Consulting Services at EAS Consulting Group

As a member of the Certified Group and Food Safety Net Services, EAS clients have access to world-renowned testing laboratories that meet your organization’s sophisticated needs. In this column, you’ll hear about their capabilities, environmental challenges and more. We hope you’ll enjoy a look “under the microscope.”

Creating a Nutrition Facts Panel involves more than entering ingredients into a template.

Serving size determination, ingredient formulations, nutrient calculations, laboratory testing, rounding rules, and FDA labeling requirements all play a role in ensuring that nutrition information is accurate and compliant. Even small errors can lead to misbranding concerns and costly label revisions.

Whether you are launching a new product or updating an existing label, understanding the process behind a Nutrition Facts Panel can help avoid common pitfalls and support a smoother path to market.

EAS in the Industry

When AI Isn't Enough

By Dean Cirotta, EAS Consulting Group President | Published by Tablets & Capsules

Artificial intelligence can accelerate regulatory research, summarize large volumes of information, and support decision-making. However, successful regulatory strategies still require experienced professionals who understand context, risk, and how regulations are applied in practice.

In his recent article published by Tablets & Capsules, Dean Cirotta explores where AI can provide value and where human expertise remains essential when navigating complex regulatory challenges.

FDA Proposes New Registration and Listing Requirements for Foreign Tobacco Manufacturers

By Dean Cirotta, EAS Consulting Group President | Published by Tobacco Reporter

Dean Cirotta, was recently featured in Tobacco Reporter discussing FDA’s proposed rule that would require foreign tobacco product manufacturers to register their establishments and submit product listings. If finalized, the rule would significantly expand regulatory requirements for foreign manufacturers seeking to market tobacco products in the United States.

The proposal represents one of the most significant tobacco regulatory developments in recent years and could affect facility registration, product listing obligations, and ongoing compliance responsibilities for international manufacturers. Read Dean’s full analysis in Tobacco Reporter and learn more about how EAS Consulting Group is helping companies prepare for these potential requirements.

FDA and USDA Regulatory Updates

Key regulatory developments shaping compliance and market access:

▪ FDA Proposes Rule to Strengthen Accountability for Foreign Tobacco Product Manufacturers

▪ USDA Opens Food Safety Outreach Grant Competitions

▪ FDA Updates Pesticide Monitoring Program for Domestic and Imported Foods

▪ USDA Launches Small Processors Action Plan to Support Meat and Poultry Industry Growth

▪ FDA Updates Food Traceability Rule FAQs with Six New Clarifications

▪ FSIS Launches Pilot Program to Expand Listeria Verification Sampling in Ready-to-Eat Meat and Poultry Establishments

▪ FDA Expands Sunscreen Options for the First Time in 20 Years

▪ FDA is Hosting a Public Meeting on Implementation of the Food Traceability Rule

▪ House Lawmakers Introduce Gluten Allergen Bill

Stay current with EAS events, training, and industry engagement:

Consultant Corner

EAS offers over 200 independent consultants strategically located around the globe whose expertise provide core value for clients.

Issue of the Month Author

Jonathan Morse

EAS Consulting Group, Independent Consultant

Jonathan Morse began his career with the USDA Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) as a Relief Food Inspector. He later served as a Consumer Safety Officer and Enforcement Investigations and Analysis Officer (EIAO).

He also worked in industry as a Corporate HACCP Coordinator and Senior Program Auditor on the International Audit Staff. Jonathan retired from the USDA in September 2025 and now provides consulting services worldwide to foreign governments and food establishments