FDA has formally recognized the Data Universal Number System (DUNS) number as an acceptable unique facility identifier (UFI) for importers under the Foreign Supplier Verification Programs (FSVP) rule.

The FSVP rule requires that importers provide a legal business name, electronic mailing address and unique facility identifier for each food product imported into the United States. FDA identifies importers to monitor compliance with and enforce FSVP requirements to ensure imported foods meet US safety standards.

The DUNS number, which was listed as a possible UFI in preliminary guidance, has now been added as an acceptable unique facility identifier. DUNS numbers are assigned and managed by Dun & Bradstreet, and are available free of charge to importers. A DUNS number can be obtained by contacting D&B by phone email or by visiting http://www.dnb.com/ or http://www.fdadunslookup.com.