Choosing the Right Food Safety Standard For Your Business

Here are a few factors to consider when choosing a food safety standard:

• Your industry: Some food safety standards are designed for specific industries, such as the restaurant industry or the food manufacturing industry. If you work in a regulated industry, you may be required to comply with a specific standard.
• Your goals: What do you hope to achieve by getting certified? Do you want to improve your food safety practices? Do you want to attract new customers? Do you want to comply with specific regulations? Once you know what you want to achieve, you can choose a standard that is aligned with your goals.
• International Recognition: If you are involved in global trade or aspire to expand internationally, consider standards that have global recognition. This can facilitate market access, streamline business operations, and provide consistency in compliance across different regions.
• Regulatory Requirements: Start by understanding the legal requirements of the countries or regions where you operate. Certain standards may be mandatory, while others may be voluntary. Ensure compliance with local regulations and consider additional certifications that can enhance your credibility.
• Industry Standards: Investigate the food safety standards commonly accepted or required in your industry. For example, the Global Food Safety Initiative (GFSI) benchmarks several internationally recognized standards such as BRCGS, FSSC 22000, and SQF. These standards are widely adopted by many retailers and food service providers.
• Customer Requirements: Determine the expectations and demands of your customers. Some retailers, particularly large supermarket chains, may have their own specific food safety standards or require certification to particular schemes. Assess whether your target market values certifications from specific standards, as this can influence your choice.

Here are some of the most popular food safety standards:

The Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Points (HACCP) system: HACCP is a preventive approach to food safety that identifies and controls hazards that could cause foodborne illness.

The Food Safety Modernization Act (FSMA): FSMA is a US federal law that sets new food safety standards for food producers, processors, and distributors.

The Safe Quality Food (SQF) standard: SQF is a globally recognized food safety and quality assurance standard that is used by retailers, foodservice companies, and other businesses to assess the food safety management systems of their suppliers. The SQF Food Standard is based on the Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Points (HACCP) system and covers all aspects of food safety, from raw material procurement to product distribution.

The Food Safety System Certification (FSSC): FSSC is based on the Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Points (HACCP) system and covers all aspects of food safety, from raw material procurement to product distribution. FSSC is a globally recognized standard and is accepted by many retailers and foodservice companies. It is also benchmarked against the Global Food Safety Initiative (GFSI) Food Safety Standard, which is the leading food safety standard in the world.

The Brand Reputation Compliance Global Standards (BRCGS): This standard is designed for food and food ingredient manufacturers, processors, and packers. It covers all aspects of food safety, from hazard identification and control to traceability and product recall.

The International featured Standard (IFS): IFS Food Standard is a globally recognized food safety standard that is used by retailers and foodservice companies to assess the food safety management systems of their suppliers. The IFS Food Standard is based on the Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Points (HACCP) system and covers all aspects of food safety, from raw material procurement to product distribution.

In the end, the decision of which food safety standard should be based on a thorough analysis of unique circumstances and priorities. It may also be beneficial to consult with industry experts, certification bodies, or food safety consultants who can provide guidance tailored to the specific needs. If you’d like to begin this process with DQS, you can contact our sales team at sales.us@dqs.de or use the “Contact Us” link below.