Introduction to SQF Certification
SQF (Safe Quality Food) certification is a globally recognized food safety and quality management standard designed to verify and validate food safety across all sectors of the food supply chain. Managed by the Safe Quality Food Institute (SQFI), a division of FMI (The Food Industry Association), SQF certification helps companies comply with international food safety requirements while meeting the demands of major retailers and foodservice providers.
As a Global Food Safety Initiative (GFSI)-recognized scheme, SQF certification is widely accepted by regulatory agencies and industry buyers alike. It supports traceability, hazard control, and continuous improvement across farm-to-fork operations, offering tailored guidance for primary producers, manufacturers, storage and distribution facilities, and food packaging companies.
What Does SQF Certification Involve?
SQF certification is based on a modular system that allows businesses to select the appropriate code and level of certification depending on their specific operations and position in the food supply chain. This structure makes SQF particularly adaptable, allowing it to serve a wide range of industries, including agriculture, processing, packaging, and distribution. Organizations can choose from multiple sector-specific codes, such as those for food manufacturing, storage and distribution, packaging materials, and primary production. The most commonly implemented standard is the SQF Food Safety Code, which provides a detailed and practical roadmap for managing food safety hazards. This code is built on a foundation of science-based practices, regulatory alignment, and internationally accepted food safety protocols. It focuses on managing food safety risks through:
- Senior management commitment and responsibility
- Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Points (HACCP) application
- Prerequisite programs (PRPs)
- Food safety and quality system documentation
- Site infrastructure and hygiene
- Allergen control and labeling accuracy
- Verification and validation procedures
- Personnel training and internal audits
SQF also includes a Quality Code for facilities looking to go beyond safety and validate food quality attributes. Certification levels range from Food Safety Fundamentals (Basic) to fully certified GFSI-benchmarked programs.
Benefits of SQF Certification
1. Enhanced Food Safety
SQF certification establishes a rigorous system for identifying and controlling food safety hazards, ensuring that products are consistently safe for consumption. This includes implementing preventive measures through HACCP plans, sanitation programs, and internal audits. For example, food manufacturers can use SQF protocols to reduce the risk of contamination from allergens or pathogens like Listeria and Salmonella, thereby enhancing overall food safety throughout the supply chain.
2. Regulatory Compliance
SQF certification helps companies align with both domestic and international regulations, such as the U.S. Food Safety Modernization Act (FSMA), Canadian Safe Food for Canadians Regulations (SFCR), and Codex Alimentarius standards. Because it is recognized by the Global Food Safety Initiative (GFSI), SQF certification serves as a unified approach to meeting global regulatory expectations, reducing the complexity of navigating multiple regulatory frameworks across markets.
3. Consumer Confidence
Displaying SQF certification on products or marketing materials reassures consumers that the company follows stringent food safety protocols. This trust can be especially impactful during food recalls or outbreaks, as certified companies are better equipped to demonstrate control and traceability. For brands and private label suppliers, SQF certification reinforces their reputation for transparency, accountability, and commitment to public health.
4. Market Opportunities
SQF certification opens access to new markets and buyer relationships, particularly with major retailers and global foodservice providers that require GFSI-recognized certification. Certified facilities are more likely to be selected as preferred suppliers, reducing barriers to trade and improving supply chain positioning. For example, an SQF-certified co-packer may gain opportunities to partner with multinational CPG brands or expand distribution into high-value export markets.
Steps to Achieve SQF Certification
Follow these 6 steps to AQL Certification Status
- Register with SQFI
Create an account on the SQFI Assessment Database to start your certification journey.
- Select the Right SQF Code
Choose the food sector category and applicable code (e.g., Food Manufacturing, Storage and Distribution, Packaging, Primary Production).
- Appoint an SQF Practitioner
Designate a trained employee responsible for implementing and maintaining the food safety plan.
- Develop and Implement a Food Safety Plan
Conduct hazard analysis, establish control measures, and create documented procedures aligned with HACCP principles.
- Conduct a Pre-assessment Audit (optional)
Evaluate your readiness and address any gaps before the official certification audit.
- Undergo a Certification Audit
An accredited third-party certification body will assess your compliance and issue certification based on your performance.
Industries That Use SQF Certification
SQF certification applies to a wide range of sectors throughout the food supply chain, from farms and fisheries to packaging and retail. These industries are under increasing pressure to meet stringent safety standards, demonstrate regulatory compliance, and build trust with consumers and trading partners. SQF’s modular system allows organizations in these sectors to tailor certification to their specific needs and risks, making it a flexible and practical solution for ensuring food safety and quality.
- Primary production (farms, aquaculture, livestock): SQF certification provides agricultural producers with a framework to manage contamination risks, pesticide residues, and biosecurity. For example, aquaculture farms can implement SQF-compliant water quality and disease prevention protocols to support responsible sourcing claims.
- Food and beverage manufacturing: Processors of dairy, baked goods, beverages, frozen meals, and other foods benefit from SQF’s emphasis on HACCP, sanitation, and traceability. Certification strengthens their ability to meet both regulatory and retailer specifications, especially for exports.
- Pet food and animal feed production: SQF certification addresses the unique risks in feed and pet food manufacturing, including ingredient integrity, cross-contamination, and labeling. It supports compliance with industry regulations like FSMA’s animal food rule.
- Cold storage and distribution centers: Facilities responsible for refrigerated or frozen food storage must maintain strict temperature control and cleanliness. SQF certification helps validate these practices, reinforcing a critical link in the supply chain.
- Food packaging manufacturers: Producers of food-contact materials must ensure their packaging is safe, clean, and suitable for its intended use. SQF Packaging certification provides a structure for managing material specifications, hygiene standards, and label accuracy.
- Retailers and private label suppliers: Retailers that manage their own branded food lines rely on SQF certification to vet suppliers and reduce liability. Certification ensures consistency, traceability, and adherence to food safety and quality expectations across the supply chain.
SQF vs. Other Certifications
| Certification | Scope | GFSI Recognized? |
|---|---|---|
| SQF | Farm-to-fork food safety & quality | Yes |
| BRCGS | Food, packaging, storage, brokers | Yes |
| FSSC 22000 | ISO-based food safety systems | Yes |
Companies often choose SQF for its flexibility, modular design, and clear alignment with HACCP and regulatory expectations.
Final Thoughts
SQF certification represents a comprehensive, scalable solution for companies seeking to demonstrate food safety, comply with regulations, and build trust with trading partners. Whether you’re growing produce, packaging frozen meals, or operating a logistics hub, SQF certification offers a pathway to safer products, better operations, and greater market reach.
