What are the most important changes?
BRCGS Packaging Version 7 includes a large number of adjustments in several chapters. The most important changes affect the following areas:
1. Promotion of product safety and quality culture
Why is this important?
The new version places particular emphasis on establishing a strong safety and quality culture in companies. The aim is for all employees - regardless of their position - to actively contribute to product safety and quality.
What has changed?
- Quality culture at all levels:
Companies must develop documented measures to promote a positive quality culture. These measures should be regularly reviewed and adapted if necessary (section 1.1.1). - Management commitment:
Top management needs to be more involved and ensure that risks are systematically assessed, resources are allocated and innovation is encouraged. This also includes regular management reviews that not only check the effectiveness of the system, but also initiate targeted improvements (section 1.2.2). - Clearer communication requirements:
Companies must ensure that all employees understand the quality and product safety requirements. Communication measures such as regular updates or training are mandatory (chapter 1.1.2).
2. Stronger focus on a risk-based approach
Why is this important?
A risk-based approach helps companies to systematically identify, assess and control potential hazards. The requirements were specified in BRCGS Packaging 7 to better align the packaging industry with international standards such as the Codex Alimentarius and HACCP principles.
What has changed?
- Hazard and risk assessment (HARA):
Companies must revise their HARA, taking into account not only physical, chemical and microbiological hazards, but also quality risks that could affect the functionality or properties of the packaging (Chapter 2.1). - Integration of supply chain risks:
Risks that occur along the supply chain - from raw materials to distribution - must be systematically assessed and documented. This also includes ensuring that suppliers have implemented suitable control measures (section 2.4). - Regular review:
The HARA must be updated at least once a year or in the event of significant changes (Chapter 2.1.1).
3. Changes for unannounced audits
Why is this important?
Unannounced audits increase confidence in product safety and ensure that companies are audit-ready at all times.
What has changed?
- Mandatory unannounced audit every three years:
Companies must have at least one unannounced audit conducted within a 3-year period - even if they have opted for the program with announced audits. This audit is announced by the certification body, but the exact date remains unknown (chapter 1.1.9). - Planning and communication:
The certification body determines together with the company in which year the unannounced audit will take place. Companies should ensure that all relevant resources and processes are ready for the audit.
Tip: To successfully pass unannounced audits, companies should ensure that all relevant employees are informed about the requirements of the standard and that the processes are audit-ready at all times. This can be achieved through regular training, internal audits and ensuring the availability of relevant documents such as the HARA, PRPs and traceability documents. It is also advisable to clearly assign responsibilities so that competent contact persons are available at all times in the event of an unannounced audit.
4. Extension of the scope of application
Why is this important?
The packaging industry is constantly evolving. The new version adapts the standard to modern production methods, new materials and sustainability requirements.
What has changed?
- Disposable products:
Products such as paper cups, napkins and other disposable items are now covered by the certification, provided they undergo the same manufacturing process as packaging materials (chapter 4.9). - Sustainability and new materials:
The standard now also considers risks associated with the processing of sustainable or recycled materials. Companies must ensure that these materials are safe and suitable for their intended purpose (section 2.5.1).
5. More precise requirements for documentation and traceability
Why is this important?
Clear and comprehensible documentation and robust traceability are essential to ensure product safety and quality.
What has changed?
- Documentation requirements:
All management obligations, processes and assessments must be clearly documented and easily verifiable. This also includes training, management assessments and the hazard analysis (Chapter 1.1.3, 2.11). - Traceability:
Companies must ensure that traceability from raw material to finished product and vice versa is guaranteed within four hours. This also applies to outsourced processes (chapter 3.10).
6. Introduction of "Prerequisite Programs" (PRPs)
Why is this important?
PRPs form the basis for hygiene measures and operating conditions that control hazards and ensure product safety.
What has changed?
- Definition and requirements:
In the new version, PRPs are explicitly named and described. They cover the following areas, among others:- Supplier approval and procurement (chapter 3.6)
- Maintenance of devices and buildings (chapter 4.7)
- Cleaning and housekeeping (chapter 4.8)
- Pest control (chapter 4.11)
- Product development (chapter 5.1)
- Regular review:
PRPs must be reviewed regularly and adjusted as necessary to take account of new risks or changes in production processes (chapter 2.2).
Important dates and transition periods
The new version 7 of the BRCGS Packaging Standard was published on October 28, 2024. Certification to the requirements of version 7 will begin from April 28, 2025. All certificates issued for audits prior to April 28, 2025 will continue to refer to version 6 and remain valid for the period stated on the certificate. Companies should use the transition period to adapt their processes, systems and documentation to the new requirements of version 7 to ensure a smooth transition. From April 28, 2025, certificates can only be issued on the basis of version 7.
Recommended measures for companies
To meet the new requirements, companies should take the following steps:
- Update your hazard analysis (HARA):
Revise your HARA to include new risks such as allergens, supply chain risks and migration of substances. - Strengthen quality and product safety culture:
Develop documented measures to promote a positive culture at all levels of the organization. - Implement and regularly review PRPs:
Ensure that all PRPs comply with the new requirements and that their effectiveness is monitored. - Allergens: Check for possible causes in raw materials or in your own manufacturing process. Avoid unwanted contamination of your goods with a clear strategy and employee training.
- Adapt audit planning: Consider the new requirements for unannounced audits and make sure your resources are audit-ready.
Conclusion
The revision of the BRCGS Packaging Standard presents companies with new challenges, but also offers them the opportunity to optimize their processes and adapt them to international standards. The strong emphasis on risks, sustainability and quality culture reflects the requirements of the modern packaging industry.
By implementing the changes at an early stage, companies can not only meet the certification requirements, but also increase their competitiveness.
DQS - Your partner for BRCGS Packaging certification
DQS is an accredited certification body for the BRCGS Packaging Standard. With qualified auditors all over the world, we are at your disposal. Contact us - we will be happy to discuss your plans!
