IFS Broker Auditing and Certification 

The IFS Broker standard is one of the standards in the International Featured Standards (IFS) series of food safety standards. This standard is specifically designed for companies that act as intermediaries and brokers in the food supply chain. These intermediaries do not manufacture or store the food, but facilitate its trade and distribution between producers and retailers or importers. 

The objective of the IFS Broker standard is to ensure that intermediaries ensure the safety and quality of food products during their trade and distribution. Through this certification, brokers’ processes and procedures are evaluated and audited to ensure that they meet the requirements necessary to maintain food integrity and provide a high level of food safety. 

Some of the key aspects addressed in the IFS Broker standard include: 

• Legal and contractual responsibility: Brokers must ensure that they comply with applicable laws and regulations in the food supply chain and that clear contracts are established and maintained with their suppliers and customers. 
• Management system: A documented management system must be in place that includes procedures to ensure traceability, risk identification and assessment, and nonconformity management. 
• Product and supplier management: Products marketed shall come from reliable suppliers and regular evaluations of these suppliers shall be carried out. 

• Risk management: Identification and proper management of potential risks related to food safety. 
• Personnel training: Adequate training for personnel involved in food brokering operations. 
• Communication: Clear and effective communication with suppliers and customers is essential to ensure the flow of relevant information on product safety and quality. 

IFS Broker certification offers a number of benefits for both brokers and their customers and business partners in the food industry. By obtaining this certification, brokers can experience the following: 

1. Compliance with international standards: IFS Broker certification demonstrates that the company complies with international food safety and quality standards, increasing the confidence of customers and trading partners in the integrity of the products being marketed and distributed. 
2. Improved reputation: By obtaining an industry-recognized and respected certification, brokers can enhance their reputation and credibility. This can be especially useful in attracting new customers and retaining existing ones. 
3. Access to new markets: Many buyers and retailers require their suppliers to be IFS Broker certified. By obtaining this certification, brokers can access new markets and business opportunities that might otherwise be closed. 
4. Risk reduction: Implementing risk management systems and procedures according to IFS Broker requirements helps reduce the likelihood of food safety incidents and minimizes the risk of product recalls, which protects the company’s image and avoids potential financial losses. 
5. Operational efficiency: Certification promotes the implementation of standardized procedures and more efficient management, which can increase productivity and reduce unnecessary operating costs. 
6. Promoting transparency: The standard emphasizes the importance of effective communication with suppliers and customers, which promotes transparency in the supply chain and facilitates problem solving and informed decision making. 
7. Strengthening the supply chain: By ensuring that intermediaries comply with food safety standards, IFS Broker certification contributes to strengthening the entire food supply chain, from producer to end consumer.