IFS certification, International Featured Standards, has become a hallmark of quality and food safety for companies in the food sector. In an increasingly demanding and competitive market, obtaining it is a crucial step to ensure consumer confidence and excellence in food production processes.
At Excellent Cork, as experts in the manufacturing of synthetic stoppers for beverages, we are committed to excellence and quality. In this article, we explain what this certification is and why it is so important.
What is IFS certification?
IFS Certification is a globally recognized standard in the food sector that sets rigorous criteria to ensure the quality and safety of food products. Developed by industry experts and supported by food industry associations, its main objective is to establish a common reference framework for all links in the supply chain. Certified companies demonstrate their commitment to the quality and safety of their products, thus differentiating themselves in an increasingly competitive market.
Benefits of IFS certification
Companies in the sector that achieve IFS food certification benefit from numerous advantages, which are detailed below:
- Quality and safety assurance: ensures high standards in food production, offering safe and quality products to consumers.
- Access to new markets: meeting the certification requirements allows companies to operate in demanding international markets that require this quality seal.
- Consumer confidence: certified products are recognized for their quality and safety, generating trust and loyalty among consumers.
- Cost reduction: by improving processes and meeting certification standards, companies can reduce rework costs and losses due to non-compliant products.
- Improvement of corporate image: enhances the company’s reputation by demonstrating its commitment to quality and food safety.
- Legal compliance: by following the certification requirements, companies comply with legal and regulatory standards in food safety.
These benefits not only strengthen the competitive position of companies but also ensure the satisfaction and safety of consumers in every product that bears the IFS certificate seal.
How to obtain IFS certification?
Before starting the IFS certification process and ensuring the quality and safety of food products, companies must meet several requirements. Once all are met, they can start the application process.
Prerequisites for certification
- Implementation of a quality management system: it is necessary to meet the required standards.
- Internal audits: to identify possible areas for improvement and ensure compliance with certification requirements.
- Staff training: all employees involved in food production and handling must be trained in safe hygiene and handling practices.
- Control procedures: define and document quality control procedures, product tracking, and preventive measures to ensure food safety.
Once these prerequisites are met, the company is ready to start the process of obtaining the IFS certificate.
During this process, the company will undergo a thorough audit by an accredited certification body. This audit will assess compliance with certification requirements in areas such as quality management, hygiene and food safety, process control, product traceability, and more.
Importance of IFS certification in the bottling industry
In the bottling industry, obtaining IFS certification is an achievement that marks excellence in the quality and safety of packaged products. This certification has become an internationally recognized standard that guarantees that products meet the highest standards of hygiene and food safety.
Moreover, it ensures that bottling companies implement rigorous practices in their production processes. This includes maintaining optimal hygienic conditions in facilities, implementing effective traceability systems, and precise control of packaging processes.
One of the main benefits of obtaining the IFS is the confidence it provides to consumers and business partners. Packaged products with this certification are recognized for their quality and safety, which increases their market acceptance and strengthens the company’s reputation and helps companies meet legal and regulatory food safety requirements.
The IFS certificate plays a fundamental role in the bottling industry by ensuring the quality and safety of packaged products. From enhancing consumer confidence to meeting legal requirements, this certification is a seal of excellence that drives the success and reputation of bottling companies.
