Quick facts
Overview
The FDA Import Alerts database (the "red list") shows products, manufacturers and countries subject to detention without physical examination in the United States. Search your product category or your Chinese factory's name before placing a large order — if your supplier is on the list, your goods will be held at the border and destroyed or re-exported at your cost.
Key features: Catch a blocked supplier before you pay; Searchable by country, product and firm and Official US government data.
When to use FDA Import Alerts
FDA Import Alerts makes sense if you buyers importing food, cosmetics, supplements or medical devices into the us. It's a common pick in the Quality Control category for importers who need this kind of capability.
Pricing explained
Free. For most importers, total cost depends on volume, service level and how much you negotiate. If you're comparing FDA Import Alerts against alternatives, request quotes from all of them and compare on equivalent scope — not just list price.
Pros
- Catch a blocked supplier before you pay
- Searchable by country, product and firm
- Official US government data
Cons
- FDA-regulated categories only
- Lists can be long and technical
- Does not cover CPSC or FCC issues
Frequently asked questions
How much does FDA Import Alerts cost?
Free
What is FDA Import Alerts best for?
Buyers importing food, cosmetics, supplements or medical devices into the US
Does FDA Import Alerts have an affiliate program?
As of our last check, FDA Import Alerts does not appear to offer a public affiliate or referral program. You can still link out to the tool from your site, but no commission is tracked.
What are the main advantages of FDA Import Alerts?
Catch a blocked supplier before you pay; Searchable by country, product and firm; Official US government data.
How do I get started with FDA Import Alerts?
Visit www.accessdata.fda.gov/cms_ia/industry_60.html and create an account. Most importers complete setup in under an hour. If the service requires a quote, expect a sales response within one business day.
Alternatives in Quality Control
If FDA Import Alerts isn't the right fit, these cover similar needs.