SQF Guide: 2023

What is SQF?

History of SQF and it's Structure

SQF Certification Process

Why get SQF Certified?

What are the Challenges of SQF Certification?

What have we learnt about SQF in this Article

What is SQF

Food safety is a top priority for every food industry stakeholder, from manufacturers and processors to distributors and retailers. One key tool that businesses can use to ensure food safety is the Safe Quality Food (SQF) certification program. SQF is a global food safety initiative management system that sets rigorous standards for food safety, quality, and management.

In this article, we will explore the SQF(safe quality food) certification program, including its background, standards, and implementation process. We will also discuss the benefits and challenges of SQF(safe quality foods) certification and provide tips for successful implementation. By the end of this guide, you will have a comprehensive understanding of SQF and its importance in ensuring safe and high-quality food products.

History of SQF and it's Structure

SQF is a food safety standards management system developed by the Safe Quality Food Institute (SQFI), which is a division of the Food Marketing Institute (FMI) representing food retailers and wholesalers in North America. The Safe Quality Food program was first launched in 1994 as a food safety programs for the Australian food industry and has since become a globally recognized certification program with over 30,000 SQF-certified sites in more than 100 countries.

SQF(safe quality food) certification is based on the SQF Code, a set of food safety certification and quality management system requirements that businesses must meet to achieve certification. The SQF Code is designed to be flexible and adaptable to different types of food industry businesses, from small farms and producers to large manufacturers and retailers. The program has two levels: SQF Level 1 and SQF Level 2, with specialized certifications available for specific sectors like packaging and storage and distribution.

SQF certification is an important tool for businesses operating in the food supply chain to manage food safety risks and ensure the safety and quality of their products. The program is recognized by the Global Food Safety Initiative (GFSI), which is an international collaboration between leading highest food safety standards experts from industry, government, and academia. GFSI aims to improve food safety plan and reduce foodborne illness worldwide by benchmarking food safety standards and promoting their implementation.

By implementing an SQF-certified robust food safety programs, businesses can demonstrate their commitment to food safety plan and quality, gain a competitive advantage, and access global markets. However, achieving and maintaining SQF certification requires a significant investment of resources, ensure proper training, quality management, personnel, certification programs, and third-party audits. Businesses must also stay up-to-date with the latest requirements and seek guidance from SQFI or experienced consultants.

Despite these challenges, SQF(safe quality food) certification remains a valuable tool for businesses seeking to ensure the safety and quality of their food products, protect their brand reputation, and meet the expectations of consumers and regulators alike. An effective SQF food safety standards program helps businesses proactively manage food safety risks throughout the entire food supply chain and contribute to a safer and more secure food system for all.

SQF Certification Process

To achieve SQF(safe quality food) certification, businesses must follow a series of steps that ensure they meet the requirements of the SQF Code. The following is a general overview of the SQF certification process:

1. Conduct a Gap Analysis: The first step in the SQF certification process is to conduct a gap analysis to determine the differences between the current SQF food safety code and quality management system of the business and the requirements of the SQF Code.

2. Develop an SQF System: Based on the results of the gap analysis, businesses must develop an SQF system that meets the requirements of the SQF Code. This involves establishing food safety and quality policies, procedures, and documentation.

3. Select an SQF Certification Body: Businesses must select an SQF program certification body that is accredited by the American National Standards Institute (ANSI) and licensed by SQFI to perform SQF certification audits.

4. Conduct an SQF Pre-Assessment: Prior to the formal certification audit, businesses may choose to conduct an SQF pre-assessment to identify any areas of non-conformance and make necessary corrections.

5. Schedule an SQF Audit: The SQF(safe quality food) certification audit is conducted by the selected certification body and is typically a two-stage process. The first stage involves a document review and a site inspection to verify compliance with the SQF Code. The second stage involves a more detailed audit of the Safe Quality Food program and its effectiveness.

6. Receive SQF Certification: If the business successfully meets the requirements of the SQF Code, they will receive an SQF certificate that is valid for one year. Annual surveillance audits are required to maintain certification.

It's important to note that the cost of SQF certification can vary depending on factors such as the size and complexity of the business and the selected certification body. In addition to the cost, the time required to achieve SQF program certification can also vary depending on the readiness of the business and the complexity of its operations.

Why get SQF Certified

SQF certification offers several benefits to businesses in the food supply chain industry. These benefits include:

1. Enhanced Food Safety: SQF certification helps businesses improve their food safety management system, which reduces the risk of foodborne illness and ensures that consumers receive safe and high-quality food products.

2. Competitive Advantage: SQF certification is recognized by customers, regulators, and industry stakeholders as a mark of excellence in food safety and quality. As a result, businesses with SQF certification have a competitive advantage in the market.

3. Improved Efficiency: SQF certification requires businesses to establish clear policies, procedures, and documentation for food safety and quality management, which can lead to improved operational efficiency.

4. Risk Mitigation: SQF certification helps businesses identify and mitigate risks related to food safety and quality management, which reduces the likelihood of product recalls, lawsuits, and reputational damage.

5. Access to Global Markets: SQF certification is recognized globally, which means businesses with SQF certification can access new markets and expand their customer base.

6. Increased Customer Confidence: SQF certification demonstrates a commitment to food safety and quality management, which can increase customer confidence and loyalty.

It's important to note that the benefits of Safe Quality Food program may vary depending on the specific business and its operations. However, overall, SQF certification is an effective tool for improving food safety and quality management and achieving a competitive advantage in the food industry.

What are the Challenges of SQF Certification?

While SQF certification offers many benefits to businesses, achieving certification can also present several challenges. These challenges may include:

1. Resource Requirements: Achieving and maintaining SQF certification requires a significant investment of time, money, and personnel resources. Businesses must ensure they have the necessary resources to implement and maintain the SQF program.

2. Implementation Complexity: Developing an SQF program that meets the requirements of the SQF Code can be a complex process, especially for businesses with multiple sites or complex operations. Businesses must ensure they have the expertise and resources to effectively implement the system.

3. Third-Party Certification: SQF certification requires businesses to undergo third-party audits, which can be time-consuming and costly. Businesses must ensure they select a reputable certification body and properly prepare for the audit.

4. Changing Requirements: The SQF Code is regularly updated to reflect changes in food safety regulations and industry best practices. Businesses must stay up-to-date with the latest requirements and ensure their SQF programremains compliant.

5. Culture Change: Achieving SQF certification often requires a culture change within the business, with a greater emphasis on food safety and quality management. This can be challenging for businesses that are not accustomed to this approach.

Despite these challenges, many businesses have successfully achieved SQF certification and reaped the benefits of improved food safety and quality management. To address these challenges, businesses can seek guidance from SQFI or a reputable consultant with experience in implementing and maintaining food safety certification.

What have we learnt about SQF in this Article

In conclusion, SQF(safe quality foods) certification is a critical component of a comprehensive food safety program for businesses operating in the food supply chain, including food manufacturing, food packaging, and distribution. With its flexible requirements and global recognition, SQF certification helps businesses manage food safety standard, ensure the safety and quality of their products, and access new markets. However, achieving and maintaining food safety certification requires a significant investment of resources, expertise, and commitment.

That's why businesses need reliable and effective tools to help them streamline their food supply chain safety, established haccp program, and quality management processes. Inecta Food ERP is an all-in-one solution designed to meet the needs of food manufacturers, from farm to fork. With features like lot tracking, inventory management, critical control points, good distribution practices, food protection, and quality control, Inecta Food ERP helps businesses comply with food safety regulations, reduce waste and costs, and improve their bottom line.

If you're in the food industry and looking to achieve food safety certification or improve your food safety and quality management, consider using Inecta Food ERP SQF system. With its user-friendly interface, customizable workflows, SQF audits, and comprehensive features, Inecta Food ERP can help your business achieve operational excellence and ensure the safety and quality of your food products. Contact us today to learn more and request a demo of our Safe Quality Food program.