IFS Food Safety IFS Food Standard Certification

IFS Food (International Featured Standard) is an international standard, which allows to evaluate the compliance of products and processes with respect to food safety and quality requirements. 

The IFS Food scheme is one of the main requirements to be able to be a supplier of large distributors and manufacturers of food products. It applies to all actors in the supply chain. The implementation and certification of the IFS Food benchmark makes it possible to evaluate the quality level of suppliers against a common standard, thus reducing the need for customer or second party audits. 

The IFS Food standard is governed by the criteria of the GFSI (Global Food Safety Initiative). The requirements of the IFS Food Safety Management System are based on the Quality Management Systems, the analysis of critical points APPC as well as the Good Hygiene, Manufacturing and Laboratory Practices. The implementation of IFS Food brings clear benefits to the organization, such as the reduction of production losses and compliance with both regulatory and food safety requirements. 

IFS Food can be integrated with other food safety schemes: BRC, GlobalGAP, ISO 22000, among other standards. 

IFS Food certification is of utmost importance for companies in the food industry. This certification establishes the quality and food safety standards that food suppliers and manufacturers must meet. IFS Food certification demonstrates the company’s commitment to the safety, quality and legality of its products, which generates confidence in both customers and consumers. In addition, IFS Food certification opens up opportunities to access new markets and strengthen the company’s reputation in the food industry. It is an internationally recognized standard that helps to improve processes, reduce risks and ensure customer satisfaction. 

The IFS Food standard’s main objective is to ensure food safety and quality throughout the entire supply chain. Some of the specific objectives of the standard include: 

Establish food safety standards – The IFS Food standard sets out clear and specific requirements to ensure food safety. This includes the identification and control of hazards, the implementation of preventive and corrective measures, and the proper management of risks associated with food production, processing and distribution. 

Promote the quality of food products: The standard seeks to ensure food quality through the implementation of effective quality control systems. This involves establishing monitoring and evaluation procedures, conducting laboratory tests and maintaining accurate records to ensure that products meet established quality standards. 

Comply with legal and regulatory requirements: IFS Food requires compliance with legal and regulatory requirements applicable to the food industry. This includes implementing systems to ensure compliance with hygiene standards, labeling, traceability and other relevant regulations. 

Establish requirements for suppliers and manufacturers: Establish requirements for food suppliers and manufacturers, including supplier evaluation, supply chain management, and personnel training and competency. This ensures that all actors in the chain comply with established safety and quality standards. 

Promote continuous improvement: Encourage continuous improvement through regular review of processes and the establishment of performance targets. This helps to identify areas for improvement, implement corrective and preventive actions, and strengthen the efficiency and effectiveness of food safety management systems. 

IFS Food certification is aimed at companies in the food industry involved in the production, processing and distribution of food. This certification is relevant for different actors in the food chain, including manufacturers, packers, processors, distributors and food suppliers. The certification is designed to ensure food safety, product quality and compliance with applicable legal and regulatory requirements. In addition, IFS Food certification is internationally recognized and is required by many retailers and food buyers as a requirement for establishing business relationships. It is therefore aimed at companies seeking to improve their market position and demonstrate their commitment to the safety and quality of the food they produce or market. 

Ariol Consulting is your strategic ally to obtain the IFS Food certification. Our team of food safety experts will guide you through the whole process, from the initial assessment to the implementation of the standard requirements. We will provide you with personalized advice, conduct internal audits and help you establish and improve your management systems. Rely on us to successfully achieve IFS Food certification and stand out in the food industry. 

The IFS Food (International Featured Standard) scheme is aimed at any company in the food supply chain, from the agricultural activity to the food manufacturer or distributor.