Category: Foods & Beverages
FDA Scrutiny on Honey Fraud Intensifies
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) recently released findings from its latest honey sampling assignment, reaffirming a persistent issue in the food industry: economically motivated adulteration (EMA). Honey remains particularly vulnerable to this form of food fraud, where cheaper sweeteners—such as sugarcane or corn syrups—are added without disclosure. How the FDA Tests for Adulteration […]
When Voluntary Isn’t Exactly Optional
If your company makes, markets, manufactures food, beverages, or supplements, you’ve likely noticed that color is having a moment. Under the MAHA banner, Robert F. Kennedy Jr. and the U.S. Food and Drug Administration have set their sights on “petroleum-based synthetic dyes.” Yes, the usual suspects remain perfectly lawful and fully approved for use. But […]
What the Human Foods Agenda Means for Regulated Businesses
If you thought the FDA’s Human Foods Program (HFP) spent 2025 just rearranging labels and scolding salt shakers, think again. In 2026, the agency is showing up with a color-coded spreadsheet, a microscope, and a very strong opinion about what’s in America’s pantry. This is the year the FDA leans all the way into Making […]
FDA Seeks Definition for Ultra-Processed Foods in Major Regulatory Shift
If you’ve ever stared suspiciously at your pantry wondering whether that neon-orange cheese puff qualifies as dinner or some sort of science experiment, you’re not alone. The FDA, the same folks who once agonized over what “natural” means (spoiler: still no consensus), have now turned their regulatory magnifying glass on a new target: ultra-processed foods. […]
A Look at Audit Readiness in the Age of Expanded Inspections
The FDA is back in full swing, and inspections—both scheduled and surprise—are becoming more frequent, more detailed, and more critical than ever. As global regulators expand the scope, frequency, and depth of inspections, companies face increasing pressure to demonstrate compliance and transparency. Expanded inspections, whether triggered by legislative updates, whistleblower complaints, or routine agency policy, […]
In a move that has both nutritionists and food scientists raising their kale smoothies in approval, the FDA announced on May 9, 2025, the approval of three new natural food color additives. This decision marks a significant step in the Department of Health and Human Services’ (HHS) initiative to modernize the color additive regulations and […]
A Closer Look at the Potential Inspection Shift, State Oversight and How to Stay Compliant
The Great Inspection Shake-Up: FDA’s New Recipe In the grand kitchen of U.S. food safety, the FDA has long played head chef—stirring up regulations, inspecting operations, and occasionally flipping a facility on its lid when things got unsanitary. But in 2025, the kitchen dynamics are shifting, with many wondering if the Agency is stepping away […]
What It Means for the Regulated Industry
In the world of food, there has been a colorful drama unfolding recently involving artificial food dyes, which are being dramatically shown the door. In recent years, a growing number of U.S. states have taken actions to ban or restrict the use of such dyes in consumer products. This movement, spearheaded by states like West […]
A Consent Decree with a Side of Court-Ordered Chill
Hold on to your ice cream cones, folks! It looks like Totally Cool, Inc. has gotten a big ol’ spoonful of legal trouble. The United States District Court for the District of Maryland just handed down a consent decree of permanent injunction on March 18, barring the company (and its CEO, Michael J. Uhlfelder) from […]
Navigating USDA and FDA Regulations
Cue the scene : You have confirmed FDA/Customs compliance for an imported FDA-regulated product, riding high with not a compliance care in the world – all is set. Goods are imported and then comes the news…the goods have been placed on an “Agriculture Hold.” You think – “What in the world is that? They must […]
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Working with Shelly on various new product launches over the last couple of years has been seamless. Quick and clear guidance is always what we get.
I've been working with Shelly and her team at Garg law for a little while now and they are fantastic! Very responsive, professional and they certainly get things done. Extremely satisfied with their service and highly recommend.
Ms Garg helped my company navigate an FDA import issue. She achieved an excellent result, was very responsive and professional, and managed to keep the project within budget. She is a stellar attorney.
I have been using Shelly Garg as FDA Counsel for 10+ years, since she was at another international law firm. While we continued to use the previous firm she was at (mainly due to the process required to change firms), we realized the quality of counsel was not the same. We have since been using Garg Law and the ease of use and trust in the knowledge was back instantly. Shelly has the skills to help me understand the regulations (by translating into layman's terms) and risks in a manner that is specific to my business. She is also extremely timely in her responses which is critical when we have a deadline mandated by the FDA. Many other attorneys cite the regulations which l've already read, but need further counsel. In my opinion, this demonstrates Shelly's in-depth knowledge of the regulations, how they pertain to the law, and how they are applicable IRL. Shelly's personable approach and pleasant manner in communication makes it very easy to have been work with her and have productive discussions on the best next steps. She truly has a passion iternational for all things FDA and I've learned so much from her.
