Ensuring Consumer Safety: The Importance of FDA Checks

In the wellness industry, consumer safety is a top priority. As a merchant, it is your responsibility to ensure that every product you stock is not only of the highest quality but also in compliance with the regulations set by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA).

Here are some key recommendations to consider before and after purchasing products for resale:

Before adding any product to your inventory, a crucial step is to check that the company you are buying from is reputable and can show you the origin and purity of its ingredients.

• Controlling your suppliers' COAs is a great way to protect consumers from harmful or ineffective products

• To avoid legal complications, make sure the FDA has not issued warning letters against the distributor or product you intend to buy.

If one of your products receives an FDA warning, you must take immediate action:

• Remove the item in question from sale to prevent consumers from purchasing it.

• Contact your distributor to discuss the warning and the next steps, which might include a return or providing additional information to the FDA.

3. Contact your Customers if a product has been recalled.

If a product you've sold is subject to recall:

• Reach out to every customer who made a purchase, providing comprehensive information about the recall.

• Guide customers on how to proceed, be it returning the product or disposing of it.

4. FDA Warning Letters and the MATCH List

Selling items that have received FDA warning letters is not just a regulatory faux pas—it can also result in severe repercussions for your payment processing capabilities:

• Merchants found in violation will be placed on the MATCH list.

• Being on the MATCH list can complicate your ability to accept credit card payments and significantly affect your business operations.

5. Ensure Compliance with WAAVE and Payment Associations

WAAVE is intended to protect both merchants and consumers. In the event of an FDA warning or recall:

• Be aware that while WAAVE will block transactions for a flagged item, you must also manually remove the product from your inventory.

• Taking proactive steps ensures that your brand's integrity and relationship with card associations remain positive.

Maintaining a vigilant watch for FDA warnings and recalls is crucial in safeguarding your customers' health and preserving the trust they have placed in your business. By taking prompt and responsible action in accordance with FDA guidelines and recalls, you can protect not only the consumers but also the viability and reputation of your business. Make sure to stay informed, act swiftly, and always prioritize the well-being of your customers.