Food safety is not just a buzzword. Making sure the food is secure is a big deal. Everyone wants to eat worry-free. That is where BRC and SFQ jump into the game. Don’t just take them as fancy letters; they are like safety nets for the whole food industry. They make sure the food you eat is clean, safe, and high-quality. Following is all you need to know about both of these fancy terms. Get ready to look into these standards and see how they protect your plate.
Food safety standards: Explained
Food Safety Standards are defined as the measures that have been put in place to achieve food safety. They are like handbooks for food producers. They tell you how to prevent bacteria and other undesirable things from penetrating the food that you prepare.
Special groups called certification bodies check if food companies follow the rules. They give a stamp of approval if everything is okay. That is why there is a club called GFSI, which has the mission to synchronize all the rules of food safety, like various subcommittees for food safety.
A Closer Look at BRC
- What is BRC? It’s a set of rules for food companies, mostly created by stores. It helps make sure food is safe and good.
- BRC Basics: BRC has three main parts:
- HACCP: A plan to spot and stop food dangers.
- Prerequisite Programs: Basic cleaning, bug control, and other important stuff.
- Getting the BRC Stamp: In order to get BRC certified, one’s company must undergo a check from the experts. They assign you a score depending on the extent to which you adhere to the rules. There is no expiration date for certificates, but you must continue doing the right thing to remain certified.
- Why Get BRC? BRC gives customers more trust in you. Large stores and companies should cooperate only with companies that have BRC certificates.
Understanding SQF
- What is SQF? SQF is a set of rules for managing food safety; however, it can be applied in all food businesses, not just supermarkets.
- SQF Levels: Risk associated with making the food, SQF has various levels. You choose the level that is best for your business.
- SQF Rules: Food safety is a major area managed by SQF through a system. It comprises identifying food hazards, preventing those hazards from occurring, and safeguarding the food against ‘the villains’.
- Why Get SQF? SQF shows customers you care about safety. It helps you find problems before they get big. Plus, many big buyers like to work with SQF-certified companies.
BRC vs. SQF: Making the Right Choice
Both BRC and SQF are useful for food safety but somewhat dissimilar. Compared with BRC, which is mainly for stores, SQF is suitable for many kinds of food companies. Both of them have specific regulations concerning preserving food, but their rules’ requirements are somewhat distinct. In this context, the decision depends on the business type and the customers served by the strategic networks. Some companies need both!
Partner with RR Consulting Services to safeguard your Food Business!
Are you also tired of looking for a reliable consultancy source to save your business? RR Consulting Services is your partner in achieving food safety excellence. Our experts can guide you through the certification process, ensuring compliance and minimizing risks. Don’t let food safety be a gamble. Contact us today for a consultation and discover how we can help you protect your brand and your customers.
