What to expect and how to prepare?
In April 2022, the IFS published the ‘public consultation version’ of its new IFS Food Standard, issue 8. We expect the final version to be published early 2023. This blog is to remind you what main changes are to be expected so you can prepare for the next audit. The requirements for certified companies are (mainly) laid down in part 2 of the standard (the audit checklist). Here you find the changes that affect certified companies directly. Three topics deserve special attention: ‘policy’, ‘validation’ and ‘testing’.
Policy
But first, have a look at 1.1.1. Here we can see a new development: the introduction of ‘sustainability’ as a requirement for the company’s policy. Although sustainability is mentioned only once, it is remarkable that the topic of ‘sustainability’ is included in a Food Safety and Product Quality standard. Let’s see if it survives the final version, because the IFS also introduced a dedicated standard for sustainability: the IFS ESG Check. In 1.1.1 we also see some additional criteria for the company’s objectives to support the food safety culture.
Both topics need some thinking on how to comply, because the criteria are quite generally worded.
Validation
One of the main reasons to publish a new version of the IFS Food is to be aligned with the General Principles of Food Hygiene of the Codex Alimentarius. Therefore validation has become more important. Instead of validation of critical limits (2.3.8.1) only, the whole HACCP-plan needs to be validated (2.3.11.1). This means that validation now also includes hazard identification, risk assessment, establishing CCP’s, control measures, monitoring procedures, corrective actions, verification procedures and the prerequisites program. This requirement has a large impact and needs a thorough approach to comply. Additional topics where validation specifically is required are:
– processes: processes that are essential for food safety and product quality (5.3.5), rework operations (5.3.3)
– product development: shelf life (4.3.4), recommendations for preparation/use of the food product instructions (4.3.5), nutritional information and claims (4.3.6), suitability of packaging materials (4.5.1)
– prerequisites: cleaning and disinfection (4.10.1)
– equipment: commissioning of equipment (4.17.1)
Testing
Having a closer look at the changes in the published consultation version, it is noticeable that the role of testing has become more important. Testing is an important instrument for validation of the HACCP plan (2.3.11.2) and within product development (4.3.3; 4.3.4; 4.3.6; 4.5.1). It also is necessary for suppliers approval and monitoring (4.4.1), materials monitoring (4.4.2), verification of outsourced processes (4.4.5), verification of cleaning and disinfection (4.10.7), the release of non-conforming products (4.12.6) and food fraud mitigation (4.20.3). Additionally, testing is required to assure that product safety, quality, legality, authenticity and specific customer requirements are met (5.6.1) and for environmental monitoring (5.6.2). This requires a strategic sampling and testing plan for raw materials, (semi) final products, packaging materials, contact surfaces and environmental surfaces which shall be regularly reviewed and updated (5.6.8).
Furthermore, the company needs to comply with customer agreements regarding testing & monitoring (KO 4, 4.1.3). Because it is new within this KO requirement, it needs special attention to prevent failing the audit.
Support
Do you feel you need support to prepare and comply? MXNS has over 25 years of knowledge and experience in the food industry regarding food safety & quality management systems to meet regulatory and certification requirements. We know how to read, interpret and comply with standards and protocols. We know how to put them in practice.
We support you in making well thought out decisions, by developing and executing projects and by implementing and maintaining quality management systems. This enables you to validate and monitor your processes and products accurately and efficiently.