What is BRCGS global standard for food safety?

The BRCGS global standard for food safety is one of the operational tools most frequently used worldwide for due diligence and supplier approval. First developed in 1998 by the British Retail consortium the standard is regularly improved, involving international stakeholders in the supply chain. Today it is global tool based on the most recent and updated food safety standards and methodologies, and it’s recognized by Global Food Safety Initiative(GFSI).

It helps companies to select and qualify their suppliers and provides a framework for managing product safety, integrity, legality and quality in the food and food ingredient manufacturing, processing and packing industry.

The requirements in the standard are related to the quality management system, the HACCP system and relevant prerequisite programs, including GMP (Good Manufacturing Practice) and GHP (Good Hygiene Practice) requirements.

Certification to the global standard comprises assessment of a company’s premises, operational systems and procedures against the requirements of the standard. The standard is regularly revised and maintaining certification requires adherence to the latest version of the standard.

In addition to the core global standard for food safety there is a range of additional modules that can be added to the normal audit process covering aspects such as specific geographic requirements or particular market concerns.

Benefits of becoming certified

Certification to BRCGS global standard for food safety by an independent third-party is a requirement of most retailers and brand owners, as well as food processors. As a result of certification your organization can:

- Provide evidence of commitment, and, in case of food safety incident, legal defense in the frame of the "due diligence" concept.  

- Build and operate a management system capable of better meeting food quality/safety requirements and legal compliance, in the countries where the finished product is sold or consumed.

- Provide a tool for food safety performance improvement and the means to monitor and measure food safety performance effectively.

- Facilitate reductions in product waste, reworking, and recall.