Which GFSI certification to choose?

In the food industry, product safety and quality are top priorities. A company that commits to obtaining a certification recognized by the Global Food Safety Initiative (GFSI) demonstrates its commitment to these core values. But why obtain a GFSI certification? How do you choose the right certification, and how can tools like Tracklab ( www.tracklab.co ) help in this complex process? Let’s decipher.

Why get GFSI certification?

GFSI is a global initiative that brings together internationally recognized food safety standards. These certifications allow companies to assure their customers that their products meet the highest standards of safety and quality.

The benefits of GFSI certification:

1. Access to international markets: The majority of distributors and manufacturers now require their suppliers to be certified according to a GFSI standard.
2. Risk Reduction: GFSI certifications help prevent food safety issues through rigorous audits and standardized procedures.
3. Performance improvement: Obtaining certification encourages companies to adopt efficient processes and follow a continuous improvement approach.
4. Building trust: A certified company inspires trust in its business partners and consumers.

Which GFSI certification to choose?

There are several food safety standards recognized by GFSI. The choice depends on the specific activity and needs of the company.

The most common GFSI certifications:

1. IFS Food (International Featured Standard): Ideal for companies involved in food processing or packaging.
2. BRCGS (Brand Reputation Compliance Global Standards): Suitable for food producers and suppliers wishing to operate in demanding markets such as the UK.
3. FSSC 22000 (Food Safety System Certification): Suitable for businesses of all sizes and throughout the food chain, incorporating globally recognised ISO standards.
4. SQF (Safe Quality Food): Often used in North America, this standard also emphasizes quality in addition to safety.

How to choose?

• Nature of activity: Transformation, distribution, storage or restoration.
• Business Partner Requirements: Some customers or distributors prefer a specific standard.
• Local regulations: Some standards are more suited to specific markets or regions.

Why is Tracklab the ideal tool for managing GFSI certification?

Managing a GFSI certification involves following strict requirements and maintaining ongoing compliance. This requires considerable, often time-consuming, effort, particularly in terms of document management, audit tracking and staff training.

This is where a tool like Tracklab makes all the difference.

The advantages of Tracklab for GFSI certification:

1. Centralized document management: Tracklab consolidates all necessary information and documents, such as supplier records, audit records and certifications, in one place.
2. Real-time compliance monitoring: The tool ensures that internal processes meet the requirements of the chosen standard, thanks to clear and up-to-date indicators.
3. Reminder automation: Tracklab sends automatic notifications for important deadlines (certification renewal, audits, document updates).
4. Error reduction: By digitalizing processes, Tracklab minimizes the risks of human errors and guarantees perfect traceability.
5. Adaptability: Whether you choose IFS, BRCGS or FSSC 22000, Tracklab can adapt to the standard and your company's specific needs.

A strategic investment:

Although certification and its maintenance involve costs, using Tracklab helps optimize resources, reduce administrative burden and accelerate preparations for audits.

Conclusion

Obtaining GFSI certification is much more than a formality: it is a strategic lever to ensure product safety, strengthen partner confidence and stand out in a competitive market.

With varying standards tailored to each need, companies must choose the certification that best suits their operations and goals. With innovative solutions like Tracklab , managing a GFSI certification becomes not only simpler, but also more efficient, allowing companies to focus on their core mission: offering safe and quality products.

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