REGULATORY SERVICES
Obtaining Inspection In order to operate
a meat/poultry business that exports, ships in interstate commerce, or
wholesales within the Commonwealth of Virginia, the company must obtain
a Grant of Inspection and be under inspection by either VDACS or USDA.
A Grant is obtained by meeting requirements for building specifications,
the processes being used, and product labels. The Grant is free, and the
OMPS will assist you in fulfilling the requirements as well as completing
the necessary paperwork. An application for official inspection, permit of custom exemption or permit of poultry exemption may be obtained from any of our offices. VDACS is committed
to provide and maintain open lines of communication. The Department assists
Virginia meat/poultry businesses with their start-up. Information regarding the requirements for a Federal Grant of Inspection can be found here.
Enforcement The Compliance Program was established to provide regular and continuing surveillance of the meat and poultry industry outside of state and federally inspected plants. The Program extends regulatory functions to operations such as warehouses, wholesalers, retailers, shippers, distributors, and other businesses handling meat and poultry products for human or animal food. These allied industries are the working environment for our Enforcement Officers, where they operate as a second line of defense in the basic mission of preventing adulterated and misbranded products from reaching consumers. This mission is accomplished through a planned and random surveillance program allowing for examination of product at various stages of distribution to assure continued wholesomeness and proper labeling and inspection. When product is in violation, it is removed from human food channels, the violations are documented, and appropriate sanctions are imposed. Enforcement Officers further provide quality customer service by offering guidance and assistance to federal, state, and local government officials, industry representatives, private organizations, and individuals in obtaining and maintaining compliance with meat and poultry laws and regulations. Consumer complaints may be filed at any of our OMPS offices, or through the Consumer Protection Hotline (VA toll free 800.552.9963).
Marks of Inspection (Legend) The
shape of these stamps or seals reveal the source of inspection - federal,
state, or voluntary. The number inside the mark identifies the particular
plant that is responsible for the product. No two plants in the United
States will have the same numbers inside identically shaped marks, making
each plant's mark of inspection unique. Your number will be issued by either
the OMPS or the FSIS, depending upon the status of your plant. The following
are examples inspection legends: FEDERAL or TALMADGE/AIKEN, VA STATE, VA VOLUNTARY
LABELS are required on all meat/poultry products offered
for sale and must have information as shown in the examples. In addition, a separate safe handling
statement is required on all raw and partially cooked products.
Consumer Handling Tips Food safety information of a general nature may be obtained through the USDA food safety link. You may also obtain a copy of the VDACS booklet "Keeping Your Food Safe" through the Office of Food Safety (804.786.3520) or the Office of Meat and Poultry Services (804.786.4569).