Exporting Pistachio to the USA: FDA Requirements & Customs Guide

The United States is one of the largest and most valuable export markets for Turkish nuts. However, US food import regulations are more comprehensive than those of other markets. This guide covers everything you need to know about exporting antep pistachio to the USA.

FDA Registration Requirement

All facilities exporting food to the US must be registered with the FDA. This registration is renewed every two years under the Food Safety Modernization Act (FSMA). Antep Fıstıkçısı is an FDA-registered facility able to export directly to the US market.

FSMA Compliance

FSMA (Food Safety Modernization Act) requires foreign companies exporting food to the US to comply with specific food safety standards. Under the Foreign Supplier Verification Program (FSVP), the US importer is responsible for verifying the food safety compliance of their foreign supplier.

Aflatoxin and Chemical Limits

• Aflatoxin: FDA action level 20 ppb (total) — for nuts and pistachios
• Pesticide residues: MRL values set by the EPA
• Heavy metals: Lead, cadmium, arsenic limit compliance
• Salmonella: Zero tolerance policy applies

Customs and HS Codes

US customs tariff codes for antep pistachio: 0802.51.20 (in shell) and 0802.52.20 (shelled). We recommend checking current Section 301 tariff rates before export. For nut imports to the US, FDA Prior Notice must be filed at least 2 hours before shipment arrival.

Logistics and Delivery

Sea freight transit time from Gaziantep to New York or Los Angeles ports is approximately 20-25 days. Port of Los Angeles (San Pedro) is preferred for West Coast deliveries; Port of New York/New Jersey for East Coast. Door-to-door delivery service is available through our customs brokers and US logistics partners.

Our US Market Reach

Our US market exports reach end consumers through Turkish grocery chains, Middle Eastern specialty stores, specialty food importers, and online retail platforms. With our FDA-documented products and on-time delivery guarantee, we become a reliable supply chain partner.