The Safe Quality Food (SQF) Program is a globally recognized certification system for food safety and quality management. The Safe Quality Food Institute (SQFI), a division of FMI – The Food Industry Association, manages the program. Therefore, it serves all sectors of the food industry, from farming and processing to distribution and retail.
Unlike other certification schemes, SQF integrates food safety and quality management into one system. This unique structure makes it both flexible and scalable for businesses of all sizes.
Key Principles and Structure of the SQF Code
The SQF Code is modular and adaptable, making it suitable across the global food supply chain. Its main components include:
- Food Safety Fundamentals: Entry-level certification for small or less complex food businesses.
- SQF Food Safety Code: The core GFSI-benchmarked certification for food manufacturing, processing, and packaging.
- SQF Quality Code: An add-on module that demonstrates commitment to product quality (e.g., sensory attributes, label accuracy, product integrity).
TThe system is built on two core elements:
- HACCP-Based Food Safety Plan: A systematic method to identify, evaluate, and control hazards.
- Quality Management System (QMS): Integrated procedures that ensure consistency, customer satisfaction, and compliance.
A central role is the SQF Practitioner, responsible for implementing and maintaining the SQF System. This trained professional must be employed by the certified site and have completed HACCP and SQF training.
SQF Certification Levels
Licensed Certification Bodies conduct SQF audits, and as a result, businesses earn certification at one of three levels:
- Level 1: SQF Food Safety Fundamentals (not GFSI-recognized).
- Level 2: SQF Food Safety Code certification, validating a comprehensive food safety plan to control hazards (GFSI-benchmarked).
- Level 3: Certification to both the SQF Food Safety and Quality Codes, representing advanced process control, continuous improvement, and GFSI benchmarking.
Benefits of Certification
- Comprehensive System: Combines food safety and quality in a single, risk-based framework.
- Global Supply Chain Recognition: The SQF mark is trusted by retailers, regulators, and food brands worldwide.
- Regulatory Alignment: Supports compliance with the U.S. FDA Food Safety Modernization Act (FSMA) and other international regulations.
- Flexibility: Modular structure makes it suitable for farms, processors, distributors, and retailers.
Conclusion
The SQF Program is a flexible, scalable, and integrated certification system that helps businesses demonstrate compliance with the highest food safety and quality standards. Moreover, its focus on a trained SQF Practitioner and tiered certification levels makes it one of the most popular systems in North America and beyond.
In conclusion, SQF offers businesses a reliable way to manage food safety, protect brand reputation, and build consumer trust.