The Safe Quality Foods (SQF) Program was launched in Australia in 1994. Since 2004, it has been administered by the SQF Institute, a division of the Food Marketing Institute, headquartered in Arlington, Virginia. Thousands of companies in North and South America, Europe, the Middle East, and in Asia have received SQF certifications. The SQF Safe Quality Food Codes 1000 and 2000 Level 2 and Level 3 are benchmarked food safety standards to the GFSI requirements. GFSI benchmarked standards are recognized worldwide, and accepted, recommended and required by some of the largest international retailing groups.
In increasing numbers, major North American retailers are requiring food safety certification from their suppliers. SQF certification meets these requirements, providing assurance that a product, process or service complies with regulatory, international and scientifically proven standards for safety. In addition to its focus on food safety, SQF allows suppliers to demonstrate their excellence in adhering to the highest quality standards of handling, preparation and processing. The Global Food Safety Initiative (GFSI) www.mygfsi.com is a collaboration of the world’s leading food safety experts representing a broad range of participants in the supply chain, from primary producer to retailer. Launched in May of 2000, this international initiative engaged in a benchmarking process to establish the key components necessary for good food safety standards, and the operating protocols for the delivery of third party certification. GFSI promotes continuous improvement in food safety management systems to ensure the delivery of safe food to consumers.
If you have questions about how to obtain SQF certification or GFSI (Global Food Safety Initiative), contact CERT ID Services - a division of CERT ID LC. 641-209-1899 or via email at info@cert-id.com
