DVA CFSAN stands for Division of Food Contact Substance Notification, a specialized division operating under the Center for Food Safety and Applied Nutrition (CFSAN) of the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). The Division primarily focuses on the regulation and evaluation of food contact substances (FCS) in the United States.
Food contact substances refer to the various materials coming into contact with food during processing, packaging, and serving, which can include equipment, containers, utensils, and food packaging materials. The role of DVA CFSAN is to ensure the safety of these substances and their potential migration into food, thereby safeguarding public health and maintaining food quality.
DVA CFSAN carries out its responsibilities through an intricate system of processes and regulations. It is responsible for reviewing food contact notifications provided by manufacturers and assessing the safety and suitability of the substances proposed for use. The Division evaluates the available data on these substances, assesses potential risks, and determines the appropriate regulatory actions or approvals necessary.
Furthermore, DVA CFSAN collaborates with industry stakeholders, scientific experts, and other government agencies to establish and update regulatory guidelines related to food contact substances. The Division also conducts research, provides guidance to manufacturers, responds to inquiries from the public, and ensures compliance with relevant regulations, all in order to protect consumers from potential health hazards associated with food contact substances.
