Best Practices for GFSI Audits: SQF and BRC Focus
Getting certified under GFSI-recognized standards like SQF (Safe Quality Food) and BRC (British Retail Consortium) is essential for food manufacturers who want to ensure food safety, expand market opportunities, and build consumer trust. Preparing for these audits requires careful planning, strong systems, and a proactive approach to staying compliant. Here are some practical tips to help you succeed in your next audit.
1. Know the Standards Inside and Out
Take time to fully understand the requirements of the SQF and BRC standards that apply to your operations. Each standard has specific areas of focus. For instance, SQF emphasizes food safety management systems, while BRC also prioritizes product quality and meeting legal requirements. Knowing these details will help you tailor your audit preparation and focus on what matters most for compliance.
2. Keep Your Documentation Organized
Accurate and up-to-date documentation is the backbone of a successful GFSI audit. Make sure all your policies, procedures, and records are well-maintained and easy to access. This includes your HACCP plan, cleaning schedules, training logs, and supplier verification documents. Using digital tools can make managing these records more efficient, reducing errors and making retrieval faster during the audit.
3. Perform Regular Internal Audits
Internal audits are a great way to catch any gaps before an official audit. Simulate real audit scenarios and focus on areas like critical control points (CCPs), traceability, and corrective actions. Address any issues you find right away, and keep clear records of the corrections you make. This not only improves your processes but also shows auditors that you are proactive about food safety.
4. Train and Engage Your Team
Everyone on your team plays a role in audit success. Regular training ensures that staff understand the standards and their responsibilities in maintaining compliance. Make sure your team knows how to answer auditor questions confidently and demonstrate the steps they take to meet protocols.
5. Strengthen Traceability and Supply Chain Management
A strong traceability system is critical for meeting GFSI standards. You need processes that can track raw materials and finished products throughout the supply chain. Clear and reliable supplier verification programs also show that you are committed to sourcing high-quality ingredients and materials.
Market Opportunities: GFSI certification makes it easier to work with top retailers and access global markets.
Building Trust: Certification proves your commitment to food safety and quality, which strengthens your brand’s reputation.
Improving Operations: The audit process encourages ongoing improvements that benefit your entire operation.
At Datahex, we offer quality and food safety software that make it easier for food manufacturers to meet GFSI standards. From managing documentation to tracking compliance, our solutions help you stay prepared and confident throughout the audit process.
Contact us today to find out how our digital solutions can help you succeed in SQF and BRC audits, improve your food safety systems, and build stronger relationships with customers and stakeholders.