About SQF

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The SQF program includes safety and quality requirements for raw materials and ingredients as well as processed and prepared foods and beverages. It has been a culmination of over 14 years of development and is designed specifically for the food industry with application at all levels of the food supply chain. It 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.

The SQF program is all inclusive. An SQF Technical Council – made up of representatives from retail, wholesale, fresh food suppliers, manufacturing, training and auditing – monitors the program and provides feedback on changes and improvements.

SQF provides independent verification that product specifications and regulatory requirements have been met. It is a voluntary global standard that crosses country boundaries.

The SQF program is endorsed by the Global Food Safety Initiative (GFSI), an organization representing over 70% of food retail revenue worldwide. Over 9000 companies are certified SQF globally.