The GFSI program provides a framework for a system of independent certification that a supplier's food safety and quality management system complies with international and domestic food safety regulations. Unlike other audit programs, Accredited Third Party Certification utilizes a system of checks and balances that strengthen the audit system and provide confidence that products produced by Certified manufacturers are performing at the highest possible levels. GFSI also requires all Accredited Certification Bodies such as Eurofins to abide by strict rules to ensure our impartiality and guard against potential conflict of interest situations. Contact us now to begin the process of certification to one of the Global Food Safety Initiative’s recognized standards by clicking the “Ready to Start” link now.

Background

The Global Food Safety Initiate began with the goal, “once certified, accepted everywhere”. Created by The Food Business Forum CIES, now The Consumer Goods Forum, this group of over 400 global retailers and manufacturers' benchmark potential Certification schemes to ensure compliance with globally recognized best practices and harmonization under the GFSI banner. This enables suppliers to assure their customers that food has been produced, processed, prepared and handled according to the highest possible standards, at all levels of the supply chain. Among others, GFSI recognizes the following food safety certifications:

SQF - The SQF Institute (SQFI), a division of the Food Marketing Institute (FMI), was established to administer the SQF Program, the most globally recognized and trusted food safety and quality certification program. SQF is designed as a food safety program, but it also covers product quality, a feature that is unique to a certification program of this type. Assuring consistent quality and meeting buyer specifications are important aspects of the buyer-supplier relationship.

Eurofins Certification is an accredited Certification Body, licensed by the SQFI to perform SQF audits through our US Food Safety Systems Division. We are one of a group of licensed providers qualified to offer SQF Certification programs across North America.

BRC - The British Retail Consortium (BRC) is the UK's leading retail trade association. The BRC Global Standard for Food was established in 1998 and has become a standard that many retailers require from their food suppliers and manufacturers. Today, the BRC has established additional industry standards for operations including packaging, storage and distribution and consumer products. Each of these standards, as are all GFSI Standards, is fully reviewed, revised and updated every three years.

Eurofins Food Safety Systems in conjunction with Eurofins Certification Services can provide BRC certification to the Food Issue 5 Standard.

IFS - The International Food Standards (IFS Food) As an accredited Certification Body for IFS Food, Eurofins can provide additional information and support you through the process of IFS certification.

These are the primary North American standards currently benchmarked with several more currently being reviewed and approved by GFSI. Should you have questions regarding the other GFSI standards we are happy to assist you.