There is often confusion about the relationship between GFSI and SQF or FSSC 22000 Certification. Let’s clarify that.

GFSI (Global Food Safety Initiative) is a global food network comprising hundreds of retailers and manufacturers worldwide. The GFSI organization determines which set of requirements are essential for a good food safety management system. GFSI benchmarks food safety standards that include those requirements.

GFSI and Recognized Standards

GFSI recognizes certain food safety standards, so if you become certified to one of those standards (such as SQF, FSSC 22000, or BRC), the certification will be recognized by GFSI. However, the certificate itself comes from the Standards Body you are certified to, not from GFSI. This means that GFSI does not issue certificates but recognizes the standards set by other organizations.

If your customer or market requests that you become certified to a GFSI standard, you can select one of the GFSI Benchmarked standards. These include:

• FSSC 22000 Version 4.1
• SQF Edition 8
• BRC Issue 7
• Global Aquaculture Alliance BAP Issue 2
• Global Red Meat Standard
• International Food Standard Version 6
• Canada GAP for primary production
• Global GAP for primary production

Differences Between SQF and GFSI

SQF (Safe Quality Food)

SQF is one of the standards recognized by GFSI. It is a comprehensive food safety and quality management certification system designed to meet the needs of buyers and suppliers worldwide. SQF certification demonstrates that a company’s food safety and quality management systems comply with both local and global food safety regulations. The SQF program includes different levels of certification, each progressively stringent, ensuring that food safety practices are effectively implemented.

GFSI (Global Food Safety Initiative)

GFSI is not a certification scheme but a benchmarking organization that approves various food safety standards. Its role is to harmonize food safety standards worldwide, ensuring that certified standards meet globally recognized food safety requirements. GFSI’s primary goal is to improve food safety management systems to ensure consumer safety and reduce food safety risks. GFSI achieves this by benchmarking existing food safety standards and approving those that meet their rigorous criteria.

Choosing Between SQF and GFSI-Recognized Standards

When choosing a certification, businesses should consider their specific needs and the requirements of their customers or markets. Being certified to a GFSI-recognized standard like SQF or FSSC 22000 can open doors to new markets and customers who demand high levels of food safety assurance. It’s crucial to select a standard that aligns with your operational processes and business goals.

Summary

While GFSI and SQF are closely related, they serve different roles within the food safety ecosystem. GFSI sets the benchmark for food safety standards, ensuring global consistency and consumer safety, while SQF provides a certification scheme that meets GFSI’s rigorous requirements. Businesses seeking certification should choose a GFSI-recognized standard that aligns with their needs and market demands to ensure comprehensive food safety compliance and recognition.

For further assistance with certification or understanding the nuances between different standards, Registrar Corp offers expert guidance and support to help businesses navigate the complexities of food safety regulations.