STR-Registrar Becomes Accredited Provider of SQF Certification for Food Industry

STR-Registrar, LLC, has become fully accredited to certify food companies in accordance with the voluntary Safe Quality Food (SQF) Program developed by the SQF Institute (SQFI). The ANSI ISO/IEC Guide 65 Accreditation allows STR-Registrar to grant the use of the SQF 2000 certification trademark for food items that have met the specific SQF program requirements. STR is one of approximately 11 ANSI-Accredited ISO/IEC Guide 65 certification bodies worldwide that provide SQF 2000 Code certifications.  

Certification bodies, such as STR, are selected by SQFI based on key attributes such as competence in the performance of audit and registration activities; consistency in the interpretation of standards without prejudice; commitment to the quality, integrity, and business ethics of its audit-based certification programs; and a strong record of exemplary customer service. 

The SQF Program is a complete food safety and quality management certification system. Comprised of the SQF 2000 Code for food manufacturing and distribution and SQF 1000 Code for primary production, the program provides independent certification that a supplier's food safety and quality management system complies with international and domestic food safety regulations. SQF is an internationally recognized certification program – including recognition by the Global Food Safety Initiative – that meets global market requirements.

Food companies that apply for SQF 2000 Certification undergo a rigorous third-party audit to verify adherence to all requirements of the code, including: addressing food safety requirements; practicing the “due diligence” principle; engaging in responsible good manufacturing practices; and complying with regulatory and product traceability requirements. The steps in the audit process include a pre-assessment gap analysis, document review, and onsite review. The entire process takes approximately one to two months.