Certifications

Globally Recognised Food Safety Certifications

In addition to a CFIA licence, certifications allow companies to demonstrate complioance with strict food safety standards:

GFSI (Global Food Safety Initiative) –

International Benchmarking Framework

The GSI does not issue certifications directly, but recognize the following standards:

BRCGS
(British Retail Consortium Global Standards)

Required by many European and UK retailers.

Focus on quality control, food safety, and traceability.

FSSC 22000
(Food Safety System Certification)

Based on ISO 22000 + ISO/TS 22002-1.

Recognized in the EU, USA, and across Asia.

IFS
(International Featured Standards)

Required in Germany, France, and Italy.

Covers food safety, process control, and customer-specific requirements.

SQF
(Safe Quality Food)

Widely used for exports to the United States and Australia.

Tailored to North American market requirements.

Halal, Kosher

Standards adapted to target markets (Middle East, Israel, USA, etc.).

Require audits by specialized certification bodies.