What is SQF certification?
What is SQF certification?
An SQF certification is a GMP certification offered by SQF. Safe Quality Food (SQF) is a globally recognized food safety and quality certification program. It is developed and maintained by the Safe Quality Food Institute (SQFI), a division of the Food Marketing Institute (FMI).
The SQFI published multiple GMP standards. The SQF standards provide a framework for food safety and quality management systems. The standards include i) codes for primary producers such as farmers or other suppliers of raw product, ii) codes that applies to manufacturers, retailers, distributors, and exporters of food, and iii) codes for narrower scopes such as storage and distribution and the manufacture of food packaging.
The SQF certification distinguishes itself by provding multiple levels of compliance and a grading system to represent the degree of compliance within each level.
Level 1 SQF Certification
This is the “Food Safety Fundamentals” level. It is intended for i) those who manufacture what are considered low-risk food products, or ii) new or developing businesses taking their first step towards GMP certification. Level 1 certification requires the manufacturer to be aware of and implement the most fundamental food-safety controls, including Good Agricultural Practices (GAPs), Good Manufacturing Practices (GMPs), and Good Distribution Practices (GDPs).
Level 2 SQF Certification
This is the “HACCP” level. HACCP stands for Hazards Analysis and Critical Control Points. HACCP is a systematic approach for identifying and controlling potential hazards in the production, processing, and preparation of food. This is also often called a Food Safety Plan. This SQF level includes all of the Level 1 requirements and adds the HACCP requirements.
Level 3 SQF Certification
This is the “Comprehensive Food Safety and Quality Management System” level. This level includes all of the Level 1 and Level 2 requirements and raises the bar by focusing on food quality, as well as food safety.
Grading
The certification process includes a certification audit by a SQF-approved certification body. The certification body will evaluate a company’s compliance with the SQF code and its food safety and quality management systems. If the company is found to be in compliance, it will be awarded an SQF certification. An image of the grading scheme is provided below.
As you can see above, the certification is issued for a period of time (usually 3 years) with surveillance audits occurring each year to verify continued compliance. If a major issue is found during a surveillance audit, the certification may be revoked before its expiration date.
A GMP consultant can help to achieve an “Excellent” score on the SQF certification audit. A GMP consultant knows the optimal implementation to meet the SQF requirements.