The SQF certification provides an independent and external validation that a product, process or service complies with international, regulatory and other specified standard(s).  It is aligned with HACCP, Codex Alimentarius, ISO 9000, and the National Advisory Committee on Microbiological Criteria for Foods.  It is also recognized by NSF International, and owned by the Food Marketing Institute (FMI).

 

SQF is more rigorous compared to other auditing programs in that it requires strict approval from third party auditors. These auditors must be affiliated with an accredited certification body, meeting international standards set by recognized accreditation bodies such as The American National Standards Institute (ANSI).  Auditors are only permitted to audit systems for which they have been registered, based on training and experience.  This degree of accreditation and certification, along with an “audit of the auditor” requirement, are unique features not found in other programs.