Annie Hughes

Annie Hughes is an experienced food safety and regulatory professional with a strong background in FDA import compliance and detention resolution. At Certified Group, she serves as Director and General Manager of FDA Detention, leading a specialized team that helps food and beverage companies navigate and resolve FDA Detention Without Physical Examination (DWPE). 

Annie brings deep knowledge of FDA detention resolution services, international trade, and food safety systems. She oversees end-to-end detention support, including import sampling, laboratory testing, and FDA ITACS submissions, ensuring clients have a clear, efficient path to release. Under her leadership, Certified Group’s FDA detention team draws on more than 60 years of combined experience in FDA import sampling and testing for food products.

Annie helps guide businesses through a complex and high-stakes regulatory process with confidence and clarity. She partners with importers, manufacturers, and brand owners to coordinate testing strategies, manage timelines, and communicate effectively with the FDA. Known as an industry expert in FDA detention work, Annie helps businesses reduce disruption, protect their supply chains, and move products back into commerce as quickly as possible.

Education

• University of Florida (M.S., Agricultural Economics)
• University of Florida (B.S., Food and Resource Economics)

Expertise

FDA Import Compliance, FDA Detention Resolution, Food Safety, International Trade

• FDA Detention Without Physical Examination (DWPE) resolution for food and beverage products.
• Import sampling, laboratory testing coordination, and FDA ITACS submissions.
• Regulatory strategy and client guidance throughout the FDA detention lifecycle.
• Food safety solutions for domestic and international supply chains.
• Industry leadership and client partnership in FDA import and detention programs.