SPS measures, plant and animal regulations
Sanitary and phytosanitary (SPS) measures and other regulations are at the fundamental level aimed at protecting human and animal life from the risks and threats arising from additives, contaminants, toxins or disease-carrying organisms in food, beverages or feedstuffs, and to reduce the risk of the spread and establishment of pests.
Examples of SPS and animal or plant health measures include inspections of products for microbiological contaminants, setting maximum allowable levels of pesticide and other residues in food, obligating the specific treatment or fumigation of products entering the United States (or other country) or requiring that products originate from specific disease-free areas.
This section provides resources that will assist producers and exporters gain a better understanding of the United States requirements relating to SPS, plant and animal health safety issues, as relevant to African exporters accessing the United States market.