The well-known International Featured Standard organization (IFS) has revealed its new standard called the IFS ESG Check early July 2022.
IFS is an internationally recognized organization with several standards related to food safety and product quality. These standards cover the processes along the industries’ supply-chain by providing specific standards and requirements. These standards are widely and internationally used by manufacturers and retailers to certify food safety & quality systems.
IFS has recently issued a standard with a new focus: the ESG (Environment, Social & Governance) management. This standard, called IFS ESG Check, intends to support small and medium food companies to implement a sustainability policy and sustainability management system.
Why IFS ESG Check?
The IFS ESG Check with its several modules will help companies contribute to more sustainable food systems
IFS
Thanks to a modular approach, this standard provides a first layer of common principles on ESG policy & governance, and the approach is made more specific by adding modules. That makes it a great tool for companies in the early stages of developing a sustainability strategy and action program.
This sustainability management system considers if the company has implemented an appropriate framework, with target oriented policies and if it has the commitment of senior management. In addition, companies can voluntarily ask for the Carbon footprint module: it allows companies to have a carbon footprint management system. It starts of course by the calculation of the corporate carbon footprint (scope 1 & 2). It will then be followed by the implementation of a mitigation work plan.
Additional modules should be revealed later on by IFS to complete this modular approach: the topics and the timeline are not yet disclosed but IFS states these modules will support companies “on specific topics”.
How to get assessed and registered?
The procedure starts with a self-assessment on eleven requirements with compulsory questions. Following this self-assessment, a qualified auditor (approved by the IFS) will verify (remotely or on site) the answers and evidence provided to each question, making it a reliable check of progress and performance.
If it is decided to include the Carbon Footprint module to this Check, an additional self-assessment will be demanded: these questions will relate with the implementation of a carbon footprint management system and shall include calculation of a Corporate carbon footprint and, if applicable, a Product Carbon footprint. Mitigation and footprint reduction actions are also in scope of this module.
As a result of a yearly verification assessment, the company will receive a letter of confirmation from the assessment service provider stating the achieved score of each module, showing improvement compared to the last assessment. The letter of confirmation will also be uploaded to the IFS database for communication purposes.
Mérieux NutriSciences can help you to prepare for the assessment and to demonstrate progress
Our Mérieux consultants are trained by IFS to have a detailed understanding of the requirements and what is expected from food companies during the assessment. Thus, we are able to identify with you the main gaps to fill in to achieve an appropriate score.
Moreover, our consultants are passionate about building more Sustainable food systems : beyond the certification, they will use the IFS ESG Check as a framework for you to have impactful strategy and policies.
We will also be able to support you in the calculation of Corporate carbon footprint and product carbon footprint as well as consult on reduction strategies.
For more information on our services related to IFS ESG Check click here.