Food safety certification can be a complex landscape to navigate, especially when it comes to global standards and requirements. One of the most important frameworks in this field is GFSI (Global Food Safety Initiative). In this blog post, we’ll explore what GFSI is, why it matters, and how it impacts food businesses through compliance and third-party certification processes.
What does GFSI stand for?
Global Food Safety Initiative
What is the purpose of GFSI?
To continually improve food safety management systems on a global level. GFSI provides a platform for food safety experts to collaborate.
The Global Food Safety Initiative (GFSI) was created in 2000 to help address the global issue of food safety. It is a landmark initiative of The Consumer Goods Forum (CGF), a global industry network working to support Better Lives Through Better Business. They aim to build consumers’ trust in the food they buy – no matter where their food has come from, nor where in the world they live – by improving food safety management practices.
How does the GFSI impact my food business?
There are several ways GFSI can impact on your business. This is mainly through the business supply chain. In order to “do business” with a certain customer, they may require you to comply with, and be certified against, the requirements of a GFSI recognised scheme.
What is a scheme and how do they get recognised?
A scheme is a 3rd party certification standard which outlines requirements or rules for the production of safe quality food. When you get audited, you are being checked against the rules that a scheme has documented within their set of rules.
For a scheme to be recognised by GFSI, they themselves have to meet the requirements or rules that have been documented within the GFSI Guidance Document. The process is also known as benchmarking and seeks to ensure a common foundation for managing food safety.
Recognised GFSI Schemes
The following Certification Programme Owners (CPOs) are currently* recognised against GFSI Guidance Document, V2020.
- BRCGS
- Canada GAP
- Freshcare
- FSSC 22000
- Global Read Meat Standard (GRMS)
- Global Seafood Alliance
- GlobalG.A.P
- GRMA
- IFS International Featured Standards
- Japan Food Safety Management Association
- Japan GAP Foundation (AsiaGAP)
- PrimusGFS Standard
- SQF
*As of 10 March 2025
Which scheme should you use?
It is entirely up to you and your business what scheme that you use. However, it is a good idea to check with your customer as to which one that they want you to have. Doing a little bit of research before you start writing documents and procedures and implementing within your business will save you both time and money in the long run.
If all your customer states is you can choose any GFSI recognised scheme, consider the following:
- What food industry that you operate within.
- Your production processes (high-risk, medium-risk, low-risk).
- The construction requirements in comparison with the age of your premises.
- Availability of 3rd party certification bodies (who will do the audit) located in your area.
- The level of management commitment
- The ability to meet all of the requirements set out in the scheme rules. It is suggested that you obtain a copy of the scheme’s standard and review the requirements.
Final Thoughts
Understanding GFSI and its recognized certification schemes is crucial for any food business aiming to compete in the global marketplace. While the certification process may seem daunting at first, the benefits of implementing a GFSI-recognized scheme far outweigh the initial challenges.
Not only does it help ensure food safety and maintain customer trust, but it also opens doors to new business opportunities and demonstrates your commitment to excellence in food safety management. Remember to carefully evaluate your options and choose a scheme that best fits your business needs, capabilities, and customer requirements.
