Audits

Operating without a third-party food safety audit these days can be difficult. Customers not only require third-party audits, they now require “global” food safety audits that are part of the Global Food Safety Initiative or GFSI.  Common GFSI audit schemes in the United States are BRC, SQF, FSSC 22000 and Global GAP.  Companies typically will only need to have one of these audits to satisfy customer requirements.

If you are just getting started with your first third-party food safety audit, it is sometimes better to start with a smaller audit and work your way into a larger GFSI audit.  There are numerous companies that offer smaller food safety and GMP audits and we can work with your company to determine what the best pathway will be for you.

We also assist with expanding your current non-GFSI audit into a GFSI certified program.  If you are taking it in stages, we will help get you to the top and be globally recognized as a top-performing company.  Many companies also hire us to perform mid-year, unannounced GAP assessments to help maintain continuous improvement efforts and audit readiness, resulting in consistent audit A grades!  These efforts also help to maintain a positive relationship with FDA, USDA and your local Dept. of Health.

If you are manufacturing and selling food products, then chances are that you will eventually need a third-party food safety audit.  If you are looking to co-pack for a major retailer, that retailer will likely require you to eventually have a GFSI audit.  But don’t be too concerned, these audits usually have a positive impact on your bottom line profits.

Audits can also serve as a great benchmark for your company. Having annual audits gives you an indicator of how you are performing against industry best practices and gives your company direction on how you can continuously improve.