5 GFSI recognized standards affecting food-grade bulk bags

We talked a lot about food-grade FIBC on this blog. we believe that (especially in the food-grade industry) it is very important to establish an educational database for our customers and potential customers. The food industry is a strictly regulated industry, and mistakes in it might cause great losses. Contamination, violations of regulations and incorrect food handling are unacceptable and may cause a complete danger.

This means following up with the new trends affecting the industry, regulations, standards and certifications are more important than ever. One of the most influential organizations in the food industry is the GFSI or Global Food Safety Initiative. GFSI is a private organization that aims to convene major players in the food industry to promote continuous improvement of the food safety management system. One of the most important functions of GFSI is to recognize certain food certification programs and standards. These "GFSI recognized standards" constitute the basic standards of food safety.

GFSI is extremely important for the production of food-grade bulk bags. However, not all GFSI approved standards will affect FIBC. In this article, we will study 5 GFSI recognized standards that will have a significant impact on the FIBC industry.

5 standards recognized by GFSI

1. BRCGS

Let’s started this list from BRC (recently renamed BRCGS), and this is for good reason. BRGS is used by more than 29,000 certified suppliers and is one of the most widely used and recognized food standards in more than 130 countries. This is why BRCGS is one of the main manufacturing plant certifications that Guansong Bulk Bag looks for when reviewing overseas food-grade bulk bag suppliers.

2. IFS

IFS ( known as International Characteristic Standard) was established in 2003 under the name of International Food Standard, which is a unified food, product and service standard. IFS certification and standards are mainly aimed at auditing food manufacturers, and are mainly applicable to situations where there is a risk of contamination during product processing or food processing. IFS aims to ensure that consumers in the entire supply chain are comparable and transparent, while reducing costs for suppliers and retailers

3. SQF

The SQF program or Safe Quality Food Program is a strict and credible food safety and quality program that has been recognized by global retailers, brand owners and food service providers. SQF is one of the only food programs accredited by GFSI, which includes a safety plan and quality plan under a safety framework.

4. FSSC 22000

FSSC 22000 or The foundation of Food Safety System Certification 22000 is a plan to provide a complete certification for food safety management system (FSMS) audits. The program uses international standards such as ISO 22000, ISO 9001 and ISO/TS 22002-1. FSSC 22000 employs 20 food safety professionals who are committed to continuous improvement and innovation to achieve the mission of FSSC 22000.

5. GFS

Primus GFS is owned and managed by Azzule Systems and is the latest certification standard recognized by GFSI (recognized in June 2018). Primus GFS certification is available in 20 countries or regions around the world. Among the various audits included in the plan, noteworthy audits include Food Safety Management System (FSMS), Good Agricultural Practices (GAP), Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP) and Hazard Analysis Critical Control Points (HACCP) (more on Primus Information).