What is SQF?
The Safe Quality Food (SQF) Program is a GFSI-benchmarked food safety standard based on HACCP, administered by the SQF Institute. It is widely used by retailers and food service providers — especially in North America.
SQF links primary production certification to manufacturing, distribution and agent/broker management, which makes it useful across the food industry. Partial or fully remote audits are also available.
Who needs SQF?
- Food and ingredient manufacturing
- Food and consumer product packaging
- Storage, distribution, transport and logistics
- Animal feed and pet food manufacturing
- Catering, agricultural pack houses and farming
SQF requirements
- Management commitment
- Document control and records
- Specifications and product development
- Food safety training
- SQF system verification
- Product identification, traceability, withdrawal and recall
- Site security and food defence
- Allergen management
- Identity-preserved foods (quality code)
Benefits of SQF certification
- Recognised by GFSI and buyers worldwide
- Access to top US retailers
- Standardised processes and continual improvement
- Meets regulatory food safety and traceability requirements
- Less rework and waste, lower costs
How HL Associates gets you certified
- 1Gap analysis
- 2SQF training and awareness
- 3Documentation and implementation
- 4Internal and pre-assessment audits
- 5Certification audit through an accredited CB
- 6Post-certification maintenance
SQF — frequently asked questions
Is SQF accepted outside the USA?
Yes. SQF is GFSI-benchmarked, so it is accepted by many buyers globally, although it is most common with North American retailers.
Can SQF audits be done remotely?
Partial or fully remote audits are possible depending on the certification body and scheme rules.