What is BRCGS Food Safety?
BRCGS (Brand Reputation Compliance Global Standards) Food Safety is a GFSI-recognised standard used by manufacturers, processors and packers — particularly those supplying the UK, US and Asian retail markets. In UK food retail it is effectively required.
The standard is built on HACCP principles and adds detailed requirements for good manufacturing practice, prerequisite programmes, senior management commitment and product safety. Sites receive a grade based on the number and severity of nonconformities.
Issue 9 is the current version. We help you design a food safety environment and walk with you shoulder to shoulder until you are certified.
Who needs BRCGS Food Safety?
- Processed food manufacturers — private label and own brand
- Raw material and ingredient suppliers to food service and manufacturers
- Primary packers of fruit and vegetables
- Pet food manufacturers
- Traders, agents, brokers, and storage & distribution companies
BRCGS Food Safety requirements
- Senior management commitment and continual improvement
- Food safety plan based on HACCP
- Quality management system with documentation
- Supplier management for raw materials and packaging
- Corrective and preventive actions; traceability
- Site layout, product flow and risk zoning (low / high risk)
- Hygiene, housekeeping and allergen management
- Operational control, labelling and packaging control
- Training for handling, preparation, processing, packing and storage
Benefits of BRCGS Food Safety certification
- Required by many UK, EU and global retailers
- Higher food safety and product quality
- Market development and new export opportunities
- Greater confidence from customers and trading partners
- Minimised risk and optimised processes
How HL Associates gets you certified
- 1Plant design review and on-site gap assessment
- 2Departmental documents and SOP preparation
- 3Food safety trainings for employees
- 4HACCP documentation, hazard analysis, CCP/OPRP/PRP
- 5Risk assessments — raw & packing material, vulnerability, zoning, allergen, food defence
- 6Implementation and closure of gap points
- 7Internal audit to verify readiness
- 8Certification body selection and pre-audit preparation
- 9Full BRCGS audit and NC closure to the CB's satisfaction
BRCGS Food Safety — frequently asked questions
What does BRCGS stand for?
BRCGS stands for Brand Reputation Compliance Global Standards (formerly the British Retail Consortium Global Standard).
How often is a BRCGS audit required?
Audit frequency depends on the grade achieved — every 6 or 12 months. Higher grades earn the 12-month frequency.
BRCGS vs FSSC 22000 — which should I choose?
Both are GFSI-recognised. BRCGS is more prescriptive and preferred by UK retailers; FSSC 22000 follows the ISO framework and is popular with multinational brand owners. Ask your key customers which they accept — we can advise on the better fit.