In a challenging market with ongoing consolidation in the European food industry, IFS has successfully maintained a high number of certificates. IFS remains the market leader in food certification in Europe and is expanding into new markets. Specifically, food retailers continue to choose IFS as the preferred standard for assessing the quality and safety of their private label products.

The food industry will face more challenges in Europe and other countries and regions around the globe as new corporate sustainability and supply chain transparency legislation comes into force. The IFS Network, supported by major retailers and certification bodies, recognises the need for process validation to comply with the new regulations and stakeholder expectations.

In this context, IFS Managing Director Stephan Tromp said, “We at IFS want to support businesses in creating and maintaining efficient management processes for sustainable and transparent supply chains. To this end, we will offer a portfolio of checks and supportive digital tools under the new IFS Supply Chain Solutions brand. These tools will support companies, particularly SMEs, to identify, assess, and mitigate risks in their supply chains. Through our practical checklists and tools, businesses can identify risks early, monitor their supply chains, and meet their obligations efficiently and reliably. “

He expects the first checks belonging to this product line to be presented in early 2025. 

We will keep our stakeholders updated through LinkedIn and our newsletters.

The IFS Broker Guideline 

This guideline is designed to assist internal and IFS auditors in conducting audits and gaining a better understanding of the IFS Broker Requirements, including their purpose and background. It contains audit questions, documentation notes, and practical advice. The guideline has been updated to version 3.2, and its layout has been refreshed.

The IFS Broker 3.2 Audit Protocol for Remote Auditing 

This document is meant for certification bodies and auditors who are conducting an IFS Broker Audit using remote ICT. Certified companies can refer to this document to comprehend the process and get ready for the remote audit. We have revised this protocol to be in line with version 3.2 of the IFS Broker Standard and accreditation requirements (IAF MD1:2023). 

The remote option is voluntary and must be agreed upon well in advance between the certification body and the company subject to IFS Broker Certification. Our broker fact sheet provides a brief overview of the remote audit option.  

Download the Documents 

Discover the essential information and valuable insights these documents provide:

• Download the updated IFS Broker 3.2 Audit Protocol for Remote Auditing in English.
• Download the updated IFS Broker Guideline in English.

Further recommended documents for downloading

IFS Broker version 3.2 – This is the current version of the standard.

IFS Broker 3.2 Doctrine – The current document answers frequently asked technical questions and clarifies the intention of specific requirements. It is a normative document that complements the standard.  

The IFS Food Standard reviews products and production processes to evaluate a food producer’s ability to produce safe products according to legal requirements and customer specifications. We launched the first standard 22 years ago. Having over 20,000 IFS Food Certificates today, IFS has become a leading standard worldwide and the market leader in Europe. Major retail, wholesale, and food service companies trust our standards fit their specific needs and contribute to consumers finding safe and good quality private-label products in their stores.

In today’s announcement on their website Erica Sheward, GFSI Director, said, “We congratulate IFS on gaining GFSI recognition of their Food Standard v8. We commend IFS’s dedication to maintaining the rigorous standards necessary to ensure food safety across international markets.”

Stephan Tromp, IFS Managing Director, said, “We are delighted with the continued recognition of IFS Food version 8 by GFSI. This confirms the high level at which IFS operates and provides the food industry with a globally accepted standard. At IFS, we are committed to food safety and process excellence. IFS Food Certification supports the relationship between industry, retail, wholesale, and food service. A growing number of companies worldwide embrace our unique approach to product and process certification.”

GFSI recognition of IFS Food 8 is an important prerequisite for IFS Stakeholders. GFSI is an initiative of the Consumer Goods Forum, a private organisation of food industry companies. The organisation has defined benchmarking requirements to promote mutual acceptance of GFSI-recognised certification programs. GFSI assesses if the standards and procedures of certification program owners such as IFS are according to their benchmarking requirements.

See the full GFSI announcement.

For more information on the IFS Food Standard visit the webpage.

For more information about accreditation and recognition, please visit this site.

IFS Broker is the standard for auditing the service compliance of brokers, sales representatives, traders and importers of food, household and personal care products or packaging materials. The IFS PACsecure Standard is for assessing packaging material manufacturing and converting processes concerning product safety, quality, and customer and regulatory compliance. Certification bodies providing certification to these standards must be accredited by IAF MLA signatories, offering confidence that the above operations meet prescribed criteria. 

IFS Broker and IFS PACsecure are now recognised by IAF as IAF MLA sub-scopes under the main scope of Product Certification—ISO/IEC 17065. This ensures mutual recognition of accredited certification for these standards by IAF MLA signatories and allows acceptance in many markets based on one accreditation. 

“I am delighted to announce that IFS PACsecure and IFS Broker are joining IFS Food and IFS Logistics as IAF MLA sub-scopes,” said Emanuele Riva, IAF Chair. “We look forward to continuing to work with IFS to support the quality, safety and regulatory compliance of products worldwide.”

“Companies holding IFS Broker and IFS PACsecure Certificates demonstrate that they have established robust procedures and processes to deliver safe and trusted products to their customers. IFS is known and respected by many retail, wholesale, and food service companies for its unique product and process approach, robust standards, high auditor qualifications, and strict quality assurance. The International Accreditation Forum (IAF) and its members independently verified that our standards meet all required criteria. We are proud that four IFS Standards are now recognised under the IAF MLA. This greatly contributes to our certificates being recognized and trusted worldwide," said Stephan Tromp, IFS Managing Director. 

About IAF: 

The International Accreditation Forum (IAF) is a global association of accreditation bodies, conformity assessment body associations and other organisations involved in conformity assessment in fields including validation and verification and the certification of management systems, products, processes, services, and persons. 

IAF promotes the worldwide acceptance of certificates of conformity and validation/verification statements issued by conformity assessment bodies accredited by IAF MLA signatories and seeks to add value for all stakeholders through its activities and programs. 

About IFS: 

IFS Management GmbH, owned by the French retail association FCD and the German retail association HDE, develops globally recognised product quality and safety standards and development programs for companies within the food and consumer goods supply chain companies. 

IFS comprises six different food and non-food standards and four development programs. These assess whether private label and branded product suppliers can deliver safe, quality products in line with regulations and customer specifications. In this way, IFS helps ensure that consumers can trust that the products they find on retail shelves are safe and of excellent quality. 

When Kasia joined the IFS IP Team as Senior Quality Assurance Manager in June 2021, she brought with her 20 years of experience in auditing in the food and non-food sectors. Throughout her career, she had gained experience with various industry standards such as IFS, BRCGS, ISO, SMETA, SQMS and AOECS. She conducted audits in Poland and across Europe. Kasia also had extensive experience monitoring brand products and possessed deep knowledge of product labelling for food and non-food products. In addition, Kasia was experienced in conducting internal and external training in the areas of auditing techniques, product labelling and quality management systems.

Kasia viewed IFS more as a calling than just a job. She was a dedicated, motivated and helpful colleague, always going the extra mile to offer assistance whenever someone needed support, even when it meant taking on additional tasks alongside her own workload. Due to her conscientious and reliable nature, she was highly appreciated by her colleagues.

Kasia dedicated herself wholeheartedly to her career while also pursuing a few interests and hobbies during her free time. Besides her family and friends, her cat was one of her favourite companions. It became well-known to colleagues as it often appeared during online meetings. She had a deep love for France and the French language and enjoyed travelling there.

Kasia was a beloved member of the IFS Family, and her passing is a significant loss. We extend our deepest condolences to everyone who knew her, especially her family and friends.

“There are special people in our lives who never leave us, even after they are gone.”
— D. Morgan

The IFS PACsecure 3 Doctrine we published today provides answers to frequently asked technical questions and clarifies requirements.

Among other topics, this doctrine specifies:

• Which IFS PACsecure version to apply in particular situations;
• The calculation of the minimum audit duration;
• The requirement regarding using interpreters and other professional services;
• The management of COID for companies in specific situations;
• Requirements regarding the approval of auditors and auditor conversion training;
• The compulsory fields and additional information to be provided in the audit requirements; as well as
• Additional clarifications regarding the information that must be added to the IFS Report and the IFS Database.

The doctrine is a normative document complementing the standard. Accordingly, it is essential for certified companies, auditors, certification bodies and other stakeholders to take knowledge of and follow the clarifications contained therein. 

The IFS PACsecure 3 doctrine is currently available in English only. 

Make sure to download the IFS PACsecure 3 doctrine before your next audit.

The IFS Logistics 3 Doctrine

The doctrine provides answers to frequently asked technical questions and clarifies specific requirements. Among other topics, it specifies: 

• Which IFS Logistics version to apply in particular situations;
• The requirement for logistics companies organising transport without their own trucks;
• The 50% on-site duration rule for companies organising transport/storage;
• The case of a suspension or withdrawal of a certification body’s accreditation; 
• The requirement regarding using interpreters and other professional services; 
• Requirements regarding the approval of auditors and auditor conversion training;
• The types of audits not accepted as sign-off audits, witness audits and for auditor scope extensions; as well as
• The extraordinary information that certification bodies need to provide to IFS.

The IFS Logistics Multi-site Guideline

We updated this guideline to align with version 3 of the IFS Logistics Standard and accreditation requirements (IAF MD1:2023). 

It applies only to companies with headquarters and multiple sites that fulfil specific criteria regarding the number of sites, activities, and other parameters. The guideline explains the requirements these companies must meet for a multi-site certification. It also describes the aspects certification bodies and those companies need to consider during the initial and recertification audits. 

Download the Documents 

Discover the essential information and valuable insights these documents provide:

• Download the IFS Logistics 3 Doctrine version 1 in English, French, German or Italian.
• Download the updated IFS Logistics Multi-site Guideline in English.

[Updated on 06 August 2024]

Among other topics, this doctrine specifies:  

•     the requirement for extraordinary information that auditors need to provide  
•     the calculation of the minimum audit duration 
•     the timelines for the applicability of version 3.1.and 3.2 
•     the management of COID for companies in specific situations 
•     the conversion training for auditors 

The doctrine is a normative document complementing the standard.  Accordingly, it is essential for certified companies, auditors, certification bodies and other stakeholders to take knowledge of and follow the clarifications contained therein. 

The Broker 3.2 doctrine is currently available in English only. We will provide further translations at a later stage and inform you accordingly.   

Make sure to download the IFS Broker 3.2 doctrine before your next audit. 

IFS Logistics evaluates the quality and safety of logistics operations encompassing transport, storage, distribution, loading and unloading, and more. Certification bodies providing certification to this standard must be accredited by IAF MLA signatories, offering confidence that the above operations meet prescribed criteria.

Under the Agreement, IFS Logistics will be recognised by IAF as an IAF MLA sub-scope under the main scope of Product Certification - ISO/IEC 17065. This recognition will ensure mutual recognition of accredited certification for the standard by IAF MLA signatories, allowing for the acceptance of accredited certificates in many markets based on one accreditation.

“IAF is excited to announce the recognition of IFS Logistics as an IAF MLA sub-scope,” said IAF Chair Emanuele Riva. “This recognition will streamline market access and reduce trade barriers for companies holding IFS Logistics certification, aligning with our commitment to promoting safety and quality across various industries. With IFS Logistics joining IFS Food as a recognised scheme, we further advance our mission of facilitating global trade while upholding stringent requirements for the benefit of consumers and businesses alike.”

“Over 3,300 companies, including large international logistics services providers, hold IFS Logistics Certifications. Many retail, wholesale and food services companies trust IFS Logistics Certificates as they show that the company has established robust procedures and processes to deliver safe products to customers. With the IAF and its members, an independent body verifies that our standards meet all the required criteria. The recognition of IFS Food version 8 and IFS Logistics version 3 under the IAF MLA contributes significantly to our certificates being recognised and trusted worldwide,” said Stephan Tromp, IFS Managing Director. 

The current scopes of the IAF MLA can be viewed here.

About IAF:

The International Accreditation Forum (IAF) is a global association of accreditation bodies, conformity assessment body associations and other organisations involved in conformity assessment in fields including validation and verification and the certification of management systems, products, processes, services, and persons.

IAF promotes the worldwide acceptance of certificates of conformity and validation/verification statements issued by conformity assessment bodies accredited by IAF MLA signatories and seeks to add value for all stakeholders through its activities and programs.

About IFS:

IFS Management GmbH, owned by the French retail association FCD and the German retail association HDE, develops globally recognised product quality and safety standards and development programs for companies within the food and consumer goods supply chain companies. IFS comprises six different food and non-food standards and four development programs. These assess whether private label and branded product suppliers can deliver safe, quality products in line with regulations and customer specifications. In this way, IFS helps ensure that consumers can trust that the products they find on retail shelves are safe and of excellent quality.

• Requirement 4.4.1. on specific procedures for the procurement of animals, fish, and seafood subject to the control of prohibited substances.
• Requirement 4.18.11 on the traceability of all edible parts of the carcass, including blood, before they are deemed fit for human consumption in the case of animal slaughterhouses. 

The doctrine is a normative document complementing the standard. Accordingly, companies, certification bodies and auditors must be aware of its content. 

The doctrine document is currently available in English only. We will provide translations later and inform you accordingly. 

Download the IFS Food 8 Doctrine version 3

Since 2014, our development programs have been enabling suppliers to establish and develop appropriate processes to manage their product safety and quality. These programs are built on standardised requirements and structured in two levels. They help suppliers progress towards IFS Certification. IFS offers Progress Programs for suppliers of food products, logistics services, packaging materials and household and personal care (HPC) products. 

IFS Progress represents the active approach of the development programs

The new name, IFS Progress, fits perfectly with our understanding that our development programs, and just like our standards, help suppliers to continuously monitor, build, update and improve their products and processes to deliver safe, quality products that customers and consumers can trust. 

With this brand name, we are emphasising the active approach and aim of the programs while their content remains the same. It stands for: 

• Progressing within the current program level 
• Progressing from level to level 
• Progressing towards IFS Certification 

Suppliers assessed to IFS Progress achieve the prerequisites for operating, growing, and developing steadily in a regional, national, and international environment and be accepted as trusted business partners.

New name, new logos, same program content 

The content of the development programs remains unchanged, and they stay in their current versions: IFS Progress Food version 3, IFS Progress Logistics version 1, IFS Progress PACsecure version 1 and IFS Progress HPC version 1. We have updated the logos, the program protocols, and other relevant documents with the new brand name. 

Assessed businesses, certification bodies, assessment services providers and our other stakeholders will have sufficient time to integrate the name IFS Progress into their corporate processes and communication. Until 14 May 2024, IFS Global Markets may still be applied. We at IFS are using this transition period to update documents, IT tools, and training materials. 

You can find answers to the most frequently asked questions in our fact sheet. Download it here in English, French, German, Italian, Spanish, Polish, Portuguese or Turkish.

Let’s work together for product and food safety 

The IFS Progress Programs are an essential stepping stone in the gradual development of robust processes for food and product safety of assessed suppliers. The assessment helps to build trust in supply chains. IFS offers tools, guidelines, and support so suppliers can reach their goals. Achieving those goals is a joint effort of everyone involved. 

Let's work together to make food and products safer and support the continuous development and progress in this area!

For more information about the IFS Progress Programs, the roadmap to the assessment and the support IFS offers, please visit the program webpages: 

IFS Progress Food

IFS Progress HPC

IFS Progress Logistics

IFS Progress PACsecure

More transparency through the IFS Star Status and updated Scoring System

In IFS Broker 3.2, we introduce the star status, signaling that an audit was unannounced. Also, you will find updates in the scoring system. In particular, the B-score is now a deviation again, requiring a correction or corrective action. 

These updates contribute to greater transparency as customers and other stakeholders of the audited company can easily recognise how the audit was carried out. Furthermore, the report shows which deviation led to the B-score and the action plan specifies what needs to be done to correct the deviation. This creates greater clarity for everyone involved.

The update facilitates combined audits 

As many IFS audits are combined audits with other IFS Standards, it was essential for us to align version 3.2 with the other updated IFS Standards, especially IFS Food 8 and IFS Logistics 3. The revisions significantly facilitate the performance of combined IFS Audits. 

Leading retail, wholesale and food service companies trust IFS Broker Certification

IFS Broker is the standard for auditing the service compliance of brokers, sales representatives, traders and importers of food, household and personal care products or packaging materials. It belongs to the leading standards for certifying quality and product safety in this sector. 

Many retail, wholesale, and food service companies trust IFS Broker Certificates as they show that the certified company has established robust procedures and processes to trade products professionally and responsibly. Over 2,500 companies worldwide hold IFS Broker Certificates. 

IFS-certified companies benefit from a unique support package

IFS offers guidance, like guidelines and various tools, to support suppliers in reaching IFS Broker Certification and further enhancing product safety and quality management processes. 

The IFS Software, auditXpress Neo, supports reporting the internal audit results. An update to IFS Broker 3.2 will become available before the audits to the new version start. 

Approved IFS Training Providers offer training based on official IFS Materials and recognised IFS Consultants support businesses in implementing the requirements and training their staff.

International recognition   

The IFS Broker accreditation process is in progress with the International Accreditation Forum (IAF) to be recognised under the sub-scopes of the IAF Multilateral Recognition Arrangement (MLA) product certification. IAF MLA signatories mutually recognise accredited certification. It helps to reduce barriers to trade as accredited certificates are recognised in many markets based on a single accreditation. Also, the benchmarking process with GFSI has started.  

More information  

IFS Broker version 3.2 is currently available in English only. Translations into our main languages will follow shortly. The doctrine for IFS Broker version 3.2 will also be published later. We will notify you of their publication in our newsletters, on our website or on LinkedIn. 

• Read the online version of the IFS Broker 3.2 newsletter for industry
• Download IFS Broker 3.2
• Download the updated IFS Scoring System Brochure

Stay up to date:

• Visit the IFS Broker Standard page
• Subscribe to our newsletters 
• Follow us on LinkedIn 

“Continuing our steadfast dedication to deliver standards of utmost value, we are pleased to introduce version 3 of the IFS PACsecure Standard. Our collaboration with industry experts, who rigorously review and enhance the information, ensures we are meeting the needs of our stakeholders. IFS PACsecure version 3 is aligned with the ever-changing market and is more user-friendly”, says IFS Managing Director Stephan Tromp. 

The IFS PACsecure Standard is for auditing packaging material manufacturing and converting processes concerning product safety, quality, and customer and regulatory compliance. The standard is applicable for the production, processing or conversion of packaging components and materials intended to be used as primary or secondary packaging for food products and other consumer goods.

Together with the packaging experts of PAC Global, IFS developed the first version of this standard in 2012, ensuring that it is tailor-made for the packaging industry. It has been the standard from the industry for the industry from the very beginning. 

Audits, according to IFS PACsecure version 3, are possible from 1 July 2024 and become mandatory on 1 October 2024.

IFS offers certified companies a unique support package

IFS offers guidance, like guidelines and various tools, to support suppliers in reaching IFS PACsecure Certification and further enhancing their product safety and quality management processes. Approved IFS Training Providers offer training based on official IFS Materials, and recognised IFS Consultants support businesses with implementing the requirements and training staff. 

Companies interested in gradually developing product safety and quality processes can start with the IFS Global Markets PACsecure Program. The program is built on standardised requirements and structured in two levels. It helps you progress towards IFS Certification within a defined time frame. 

International recognition

The IFS PACsecure version 3 accreditation process is in progress with the International Accreditation Forum (IAF) to be recognised under the sub-scopes of product certification of the IAF Multilateral Recognition Arrangement (MLA). IAF MLA signatories mutually recognise accredited certification. It helps to reduce barriers to trade as accredited certificates are recognised in many markets based on a single accreditation. Also, the benchmarking process with GFSI has started. 

More information

IFS PACsecure version 3 is currently available in English only. Translations will come later, and we will inform you about them on LinkedIn and in our regular newsletters. 

For more details: 

• Download the newsletter about IFS PACsecure 3 for Industry
• Visit the IFS PACsecure webpage.

Berlin, 21 February 2024

IFS Food 8 Doctrine version 2 

We updated the IFS Food 8 Doctrine. It is a normative document complementing the standard. Accordingly, companies, certification bodies and auditors must be aware of its content before the next audit. The current update clarifies the following requirements:  

• Part 1, 1.2.1.1 on the use of a professional interpreting service provider. 
• Part 3, 3.1.1.1 on the suspension or withdrawal of the accreditation of a certification body. 
• Part 4, 4.2.1.1 on using the COID for companies in some specific cases.

IFS Food 8 Audit Checklist Guideline 

This guideline enhances your understanding of the IFS Food Requirements as well as their intention and background. It gives you hands-on advice and contains valuable references. 

For every chapter, the guideline offers you a selection of 

• applicable European legislation, 
• references to legislation in other parts of the world, 
• and other helpful documents. 

For each requirement according to part 2 of the IFS Food 8 Standard (Audit Checklist), you will find 

• examples of good practices, 
• typical auditor questions, 
• elements an auditor should check, 
• and examples of non-conformities, Majors and KOs.

The guideline has an explanatory, supportive character and is not normative. It will equip companies with the same know-how as the auditors. 

Download the documents 

Benefit from these sources of expertise and be well-prepared for your next audit. 

• Download the IFS Food 8 Doctrine version 2 here. 
• Download the updated IFS Food 8 Audit Checklist Guideline here. 

“With IFS Logistics version 3, we present a standard updated to current regulations, market expectations and the latest trends. IFS has developed this version with international experts from the logistics sector, food industries, retail and wholesale companies, and certification bodies. Their input and expertise ensure that the requirements meet the market’s needs. I thank everyone who has contributed to realising this new version”, says IFS Managing Director Stephan Tromp.

Optimised certification processes with IFS Logistics version 3

IFS Logistics version 3 has fewer requirements and an optimised protocol and structure. Further updates concern the scoring system, extensions and clarifications in the scopes, and the introduction of the star status to indicate an unannounced audit. It is now aligned with the IFS Food Standard version 8, which is relevant for combined audits.

“We took many suggestions from the logistics industry to make it more efficient for all stakeholders to work with the IFS Logistics Standard. I am positive that the optimised processes, workflow, and other updates will contribute to that”, states Mariana Estrada, IFS Logistics Standard Manager, about the new standard version.

IFS Logistics version 3 audits are possible starting 1 June 2024 and become mandatory on 1 December 2024.

IFS Logistics is widely used and accepted

Many retail, wholesale and food services companies trust IFS Logistics Certificates as they show that the company has established robust procedures and processes to handle their products professionally and responsibly. Over 3,300 companies, including large international logistics services providers, hold IFS Logistics Certifications.

IFS-certified companies benefit from a unique support package

IFS offers guidance, like guidelines and various tools, to support suppliers in reaching IFS Logistics Certification and further enhancing their product safety and quality management processes. Approved IFS Training Providers offer training based on official IFS Materials and recognised IFS Consultants support businesses with implementing the requirements and training staff.

The IFS Global Markets Logistics program helps logistics companies develop product safety and quality processes gradually.

International recognition

The IFS Logistics version 3 accreditation process is in progress with the International Accreditation Forum (IAF) to be recognised under the sub-scopes of product certification of the IAF Multilateral Recognition Arrangement (MLA). IAF MLA signatories mutually recognise accredited certification. It helps to reduce barriers to trade as accredited certificates are recognised in many markets based on a single accreditation. Also, the benchmarking process with GFSI has started.

More information

IFS Logistics version 3 is currently available in English only. Translations will come later, and we will inform you about them as soon as they are available.

For more information about the IFS Logistics Standard, please visit the IFS Logistics webpage.

For all significant information about IFS Logisitics version 3, read the whole newsletter here.

On 16 and 17 October 2023, we welcomed over 200 participants to our Certification Body Conference in Berlin and to our live stream.

The annual IFS CB Conference brings together representatives of IFS-approved certification bodies from around the world. The 2-day conference programme consisted of a wide range of informative sessions. IFS Team Members delved into various aspects of certification, including updated standards, new programs and the latest company developments.

This year, we were happy to welcome two outstanding keynote speakers. Robert Prevendar, Director of Food Safety and Quality Assurance at Yum! Brands, and Dr Jean-Charles Gander, Chief Quality Officer at the Migros Group, shared insights into their companies’ policies and the role IFS Certification plays in this context. 

The number of certification bodies we work with is constantly growing worldwide. If you are interested in joining our CB network, read more here.

We would like to thank everyone who contributed to this event and look forward to welcoming the CBs back to Berlin next year.

The applicability of version 7 ends on 31 December 2023; only in exceptional cases may they be performed after this date. These exceptions are specified in the current IFS Food Doctrines for version 7 and version 8.

The update of the IFS Software auditXpress Neo (AXP Neo) for IFS Food 8 is already available. It significantly facilitates the reporting of internal audits and is free of charge. The new software is fast, intuitive, and clearly arranged. It facilitates the collaboration between audited companies and the certification body, that uses the same software.

Businesses certified to the IFS Food Standard find AXP Neo for downloading in the login area of the IFS Database. We have also made this software available to CBs approved for IFS Food and auditors who did the version 8 conversion training. 

On our IFS YouTube channel, you can watch our video that gives you an overview of the most important changes in version 8 compared to version 7. For more details, download the IFS Food version 7 and version 8 comparison document.

The IFS Food Standard page provides all relevant information about the standard, the roadmap to certification and all relevant documents for downloading from the document hub. Be sure to visit this page to be excellently prepared for your first IFS Food 8 audit.

The doctrine is a normative document complementing the standard. Accordingly, companies, certification bodies and auditors must follow the clarifications contained therein. 

Among other topics, you will find more details regarding specific exceptional situations in which the audit to version 2 can be accepted after 1 September 2023.  

Make sure to download the doctrine for IFS HPC version 3 before your next audit. 

In these documents, we answer frequently asked technical questions and give clarifications about the requirements. The doctrines are normative documents complementing the standard. Accordingly, companies, certification bodies and auditors must follow the clarifications contained therein.

Among other topics, you will find more details regarding specific exceptional situations in which the assessment to version 7 can be accepted after 1 January 2024. Also, we clarified the information you need to provide in the extraordinary information form related to IFS Food 8 requirement 1.2.6.

Make sure to download the doctrine for IFS Food version 7 and for IFS Food version 8 before your next audit. The IFS Food version 8 doctrine is also available in French, German, Italian and Spanish.

The new IFS Packaging Guideline helps food companies to identify potential risks and ensure their packaging is safe. It is a supporting document with the goal of improving the communication and cooperation between IFS certified companies and their packaging suppliers.

In this second updated version of the guideline, you can find a practical approach with:

1. A explanation of supply chain communication and responsibilities of the parties involved
2. An overview and update regarding EU legislation and general definitions
3. A explanation of related IFS Requirements and questions auditors might ask
4. A step-by-step guidance of the food manufacturer’s compliance work
5. New sustainability aspects following the European Union’s „Green Deal”
6. An updated detailed example checklist for the evaluation of the declaration of compliance

We thank our colleagues Irmtraut Rathjens de Suster, Konstantina Papastamopoulou and Cheryl Sullivan for their great and hard work in realising this new guideline version. Our special thanks go to Thomas Gude from SQTS, Switzerland, whose experience, knowledge, and insights have made this guideline possible. We would also like to thank the IK Industrievereinigung Kunststoffverpackungen e.V. and all other contributors for their valuable contributions and additional comments.

Get the new IFS Packaging Guideline. It is currently only available in English.

“IFS Food version 8 is the result of a remarkable, global team effort. We have taken up the feedback from our global network and updated the standard to current events and expectations in the broad field of food safety. Many renowned experts from retailers, food producers and certification bodies in our committees and working groups have contributed their expertise to further optimise the standard according to the needs of the market. I am convinced that version 8 sets a new standard and will contribute to establishing a vivid food safety culture”, says Stephan Tromp, IFS Managing Director.

The new version is state of the art in terms of food safety

In this new version, you will find an optimised protocol, a new definition of the B-scoring, and the introduction of a star status to highlight unannounced audits. These updates facilitate efficient working with the standard for all parties involved.

“The IFS Food Standard is designed to promote continuous improvement of the companies certified to it. Accordingly, we at IFS have the ambition to continually adapt and enhance it further. This way, our certified companies and other stakeholders can rely on us to be in tune with the latest developments”, adds Chryssa Dimitriadis, Director of Standard Management at IFS.

21 years of providing high-quality, widely accepted and trusted standards

We launched the first IFS Food Standard 21 years ago. Having over 20,000 IFS Food Certificates today, IFS has become a leading standard worldwide and the market leader in Europe. As a joint venture of two leading retail associations, major retail and wholesale companies trust our standards fit their specific needs. Also, key food services companies are convinced of the quality of our standards and work with us. They all know that we set the highest standards in auditor qualification and have a strong and consistent integrity program. It contributes to the high quality and reliability of our certification. Also, it ensures that consumers find safe and good quality private label products in their stores.

IFS-certified companies benefit from a unique support package

IFS offers guidance, like guidelines and various tools, to support suppliers in reaching IFS Food Certification and further enhancing their food safety and quality management. Approved IFS Training Providers offer training based on IFS Materials, and recognised IFS Consultants can support you with implementing the requirements and training your staff.

International recognition

IFS Food version 8 accreditation process is in progress with the International Accreditation Forum (IAF) in order to be recognised under the sub-scopes of product certification of the IAF Multilateral Recognition Arrangement (MLA). IAF MLA signatories mutually recognise accredited certification. It helps to reduce barriers to trade and promote food safety, as accredited certificates are recognised in many markets based on a single accreditation.

IFS also has started the application procedure with GFSI and hopes to achieve recognition to the GFSI Benchmarking Requirements for IFS Food version 8 soon.

More information

The standard is available in English, French, German, Italian and Spanish on our website. We will provide further translations at a later stage and inform you accordingly.

For more information about the IFS Food Standard, please visit our IFS Food page.
For all significant information about Food version 8, read the whole newsletter here.

Following up on our news from 28 March, we would like to take this opportunity to answer some frequently asked questions about the new website.

How can I find a specific document in my language?

The easiest way to find a document is to use the document hub on the homepage. It is our central and free library from which you can download all publicly available IFS Documents relating to our current standards, programs, checks, and other relevant topics.

The best way to search is to use the dropdown menus in the search boxes. For example, to find the IFS Food Standard in Polish, choose Food from the standard menu, Standard as document type and Polish as the language.

Learn more about it in the IFS Document Hub Fact Sheet.

Can I search for documents on the standard and program pages?

We will integrate the document hub on the standard and program pages to make searching relevant documents more efficient.  The default settings will be set to the corresponding language and standard/program on the French, German, Italian and Spanish pages. On the English pages, you will be able to change the language settings.

Where can I find the directory of certification bodies, consultants, and training providers?

This information is located on the standard and program pages under the following headings:

• “Train” directs you to the training providers page
• “Implement” provides a search for recognised IFS Consultants
• “Audit/Assess” contains a search for certification bodies and assessment services providers.

Each standard and program page offers a “one-stop shop” in which you can access all the relevant information and documents and locate our partners immediately.

Where do I find the audit time calculation tool?

The audit time calculation tool has moved from the website to the IFS Software. It is integrated into the IFS auditXpressX and the new auditXpress Neo software. We provide the software free of charge to certified and global markets assessed companies, consultants, and CBs. You will find it in your login area of the IFS Database.

[Update, 30.11.2023] We also provide an online audit time calculator again. You can access it here.

How do I reach the qualification platforms?

Information and login links to our various qualification platforms have changed. You will find them at the top of the standard and program pages or in the special areas for consultants and training providers.

More is yet to come! We continue to optimise the site based on the feedback we are receiving. It will get new features as we look to expand our services further.

	Quickly find information about the IFS Standards and Programs You can directly go to the standard and program pages from the homepage. Here, you will find a short description of the standard or program, its benefits, relevant downloads, a roadmap to certification, an overview of the support IFS, and specific news.
	Get all documents in one place You will discover a handy new feature on the new website – the IFS Document Hub. It is our central and free library from which you can download all documents relating to our current standards, programs, checks, and other relevant topics. You can refine your search by name, standard, type and language.
	Find specific information on designated pages We have designated areas to provide certification bodies, auditors, consultants and training providers with specific information.
	Further languages will follow soon For now, the new website is in English only. However, the documents, such as standards, programs, doctrines, factsheets, and guidelines, are available in multiple languages. Find them easily in the document hub on the homepage. After a 4 to 6 weeks testing phase, we will upload the website in French, German, Italian and Spanish. Here, we kindly ask for your patience and understanding. Meanwhile, you may want to use the automatic translation function of your web browser to translate the web pages.

More is yet to come!

We have reached a significant milestone with the launch of the new site. Still, it remains a work in progress. In addition to the translations, which have priority, the website will get new features as we look to expand our services further.

We provided GFSI with all the necessary information on the case in Italy, underwent an audit with the GFSI benchmark leader on 3 March 2023 and always fulfilled the GFSI benchmarking requirements. We therefore welcome today’s decision of the GFSI Steering Committee to reinstate IFS as a GFSI-recognised CPO.

Nevertheless, IFS has considered the suspension of the benchmark by GFSI as unfounded and arbitrary. It has unsettled many IFS-certified companies and has not contributed to food safety. We have always worked to ensure that their customers continue to recognise IFS Certificates and are grateful for the trust placed in us by our global network.

In the interest of all CPOs, certification bodies, certified companies and other stakeholders, we would like to see GFSI revise its governance rules to ensure that basic democratic principles are respected, procedures are transparent and fair, and rules are adhered to by all participants in the future. We all want to work for the cause of food safety, taking into account the different needs and approaches of all stakeholders.

From the very beginning, the suspension decision was based on false facts. In its suspension decision GFSI claimed that "IFS shared limited information on actions taken by the CB, the manufacturing site and the outcome of the regulatory investigation."

This reasoning is not correct and has been objected by IFS with its appeal. Thus, IFS had sent e-mails on 30 September, 4 October, 6 October, 12 October  and 17 October with information about the case to GFSI. Furthermore, the e-mail from IFS from 17 October 2022, that contained a number of important pieces of information about the case, was not taken into account when deciding about the suspension. In addition, GFSI also incorrectly stated that IFS did not respond to GFSI reminders on 13 October and 24 October 2022.

Although IFS considers the suspension by GFSI to be unlawful and arbitrary and has appealed against it, IFS has already responded to all remedies - both those imposed by the suspension decision and the additional ones imposed on 13 January 2023 and 7 February 2023. were imposed after that the first was met.

Nonetheless, GFSI has maintained the suspension of IFS without giving any reason or explanation to IFS or the public that has been informed by GFSI through its website. By posting the suspension on its website without giving a reason, the GFSI is violating its own regulations.

We deplore this situation and deeply regret the confusion it creates. 

IFS assures that the 23000+ active IFS Certificates will continue to be accepted by European retailers and wholesalers as well as by IFS Partners from retail, wholesale, industry and food service all over the world.

Our 82 approved accredited certification bodies and their 1300+ auditors around the world are operating with no obstacle to ensure business continuity and make sure your audits are undertaken on time and that your certificates are valid and gives your customers trust and confidence in your food safety management systems.

Our priority is to keep the certification programs ongoing and protect the certificates awarded by the IFS Certification Bodies.

We are at your disposal with our entire team to answer all your questions.

It is a development program that helps food suppliers gradually build comprehensive food safety and quality processes. Together with their customers, they can set the path towards IFS Certification, including the pace and milestones.

“With IFS Global Markets Food, we offer companies an easy entry into adequate product safety and quality processes. Version 3 of this development program is now aligned with the IFS Product and Process Approach, strengthening it as a pre-stage to IFS Certification. It is unique to IFS that we offer global markets assessed companies a wide range of free guidelines and supportive tools so that they can continuously strengthen your safety and quality management.”, says IFS Managing Director, Stephan Tromp, about the latest edition of IFS Global Markets Food.

In the new version of the program, we improved the various prerequisites for developing product safety and quality processes to make reaching the goal of IFS Certification more accessible and efficient. The alignment to the Food Standard and IFS Product and Process Approach supports this. We are also introducing new and revised requirements to ensure compliance with legal requirements and essential issues, as well as to improve the implementation of food safety and quality management processes.

The IFS offers guidance and support, like guidelines and tools, to support companies in their development and assessment process. Especially the IFS Pathway platform helps them start with food safety and quality management and get on the way to IFS Certification. Also, approved IFS Training Providers offer training based on IFS Materials and recognised IFS Consultants can support you with the implementation of the requirements.

Please find the program and other documents here.

“Consumers’ expectations of the quality and product safety of household and personal care products have increased in recent years. Health and safety issues have created a desire for more transparency in production and the supply chain. The IFS HPC is the standard developed to build more confidence in the market. With the new version 3, we offer an improved approach to assessing a company’s product safety and quality management”, says IFS Managing Director, Stephan Tromp, about the latest edition of IFS HPC.

The new version of the standard provides an updated approach to assessing a company’s product safety and quality management, including customer specifications. Its focus on assessing topical issues for the HPC industry, like hazard analysis, risk assessment, allergen risk mitigation, product safety culture, and product specifications, clearly demonstrates the objectives of the new IFS HPC Standard.

IFS provides guidance and support, such as guidelines and tools, to support companies with their certification. In addition, approved IFS Training Providers offer training based on IFS Materials, and recognised IFS Consultants can support you in implementing the requirements.

Please find the standard and other documents here.

IFS will follow the appeal procedure and has handed over the case to its lawyer. For this reason, we cannot share details at this moment. However, we want to state again that the reason is a communication misunderstanding, not a food safety issue. Also, we would like to emphasise that this suspension does not affect the validity of the certificates.

Just like many others, we were surprised by the GFSI’s action. On 8 December at 11:47 pm we were informed by email of the suspension and about its publication on 9 December. We, therefore, had no time to prepare information for the CBs and IFS-certified companies.

Initially, our main concern was to ensure that our certificates would continue to be accepted to prevent damage to suppliers as far as possible. The retail and wholesale companies in our network have indicated to us that they will do so and will inform their suppliers accordingly.

This has nothing to do with the validity of existing IFS Certificates.

From our point of view there is no professional food safety reasons for the suspension which we will prove in our Appeal. Rather, we believe that the reasons for the suspension lie in the strained relationship between IFS and GFSI, as IFS has had the legality of the GFSI race-to-the-top reviewed by the Federal Cartel Office under antitrust and competition law.

IFS had invited GFSI to the IFS Board for clarification, but GFSI refused and is now pursuing a confrontational path, which we very much regret.

With this suspension, GFSI calls into question the integrity of the IFS. The IFS will therefore take legal action against GFSI's activities and has already referred the case to its lawyer.

Finally, we would like to let you know that all IFS Certificates are still valid and that the retailers and wholesalers from the IFS Network have clearly informed us that these certificates will also be recognised during the GFSI suspension.

In this completely revised second version of the guideline, you can await explanations on some new aspects of pest management.

1. We introduce aspects of sustainability and digitisation following the European Union’s „Green Deal”.

2. We explain Integrated Pest Management principles and provide examples.

3. We present new innovative tools and techniques for pest management.

4. We analyse the pest management related IFS Requirements and provide questions auditors might ask.

5. We added an example of a detailed risk assessment for different pests.

Integrated Pest Management is a new requirement of the European Commission to reduce the risk of chemical pesticides by half. Pesticides for pest control can continue to be used with better consideration for people and the environment.

We thank our colleague Irmtraut Rathjens de Suster for her great and hard work in realising this new guideline version. Our special thanks go to Daniel Schroeer from Futura GmbH, whose experience, knowledge and insights have made this guideline possible, which provides a practical approach to implementing the principles of plant protection. We would also like to thank ANID (Associazione Nazionale delle Imprese di Disinfestazione) for their valuable contributions and additional comments. This guideline is published in cooperation with QS Qualität und Sicherheit GmbH.

The guideline is currently only available in English, further languages will follow soon.

ESG Check: IFS unterstützt Unternehmen auf dem Weg zu mehr Nachhaltigkeit

• Das verifizierte Self-Assessment hilft kleinen und mittleren Unternehmen bei der Bewertung ihres aktuellen Nachhaltigkeitsmanagements
• Modell erleichtert Betrieben den Einstieg in aktiven Klimaschutz

Berlin, 07.07.2022. Die Ernährungswirtschaft ist besonders gefordert, wenn es darum geht Prozesse, Strukturen und Geschäftsmodelle nachhaltiger zu gestalten. IFS, der weltweit angewandte Qualitätsstandard, hat deshalb den IFS ESG Check entwickelt, der gerade kleinen und mittleren Unternehmen hilft, den eigenen Status Quo zu ermitteln. Das verifizierte Self-Assessment schafft damit eine wichtige Grundlage für konkrete Maßnahmen auf dem Weg zu mehr Nachhaltigkeit.

Kaum ein Thema treibt Menschen so um wie der Klimawandel. Das ergab eine Studie der European Investment Bank in 27 Ländern. Vor allem in der Ernährungswirtschaft spielt Nachhaltigkeit eine entscheidende Rolle, da der Bedarf an Nahrungsmitteln weltweit steigt und Produktion und Lieferketten für zusätzliche CO2-Emissionen sorgen. Weltweit gibt es daher Bestrebungen, Vorgaben für eine nachhaltige Produktion gesetzlich zu verankern. Mit ihrem Programm eines Green Deals, der Europa bis 2050 zum ersten klimaneutralen Kontinent machen soll, und der weitreichenden EU-Taxonomie nimmt die Europäische Union in diesem Zusammenhang eine Vorreiterstellung ein. 

Doch damit kleine und mittelständische Unternehmen handeln und sich nachhaltiger aufstellen können, ist Orientierung gefragt. Der IFS – International Featured Standard hat daher einen ESG Check entwickelt, der den Unternehmen hilft zu verstehen, wie sie in Sachen Nachhaltigkeit aufgestellt sind und wie sie die Umwelt-, Sozial- und Governance-Prinzipien (ESG) integrieren können. Bei über 30.000 zertifizierten Unternehmen ist der IFS als verlässlicher Partner bekannt.

„Der IFS ESG Check hilft dabei, das Engagement für Umwelt, Soziales und Governance in kleinen und mittelständischen Unternehmen zu erfassen und die Betriebe damit in die nächste Phase ihres Wachstums zu begleiten“, sagt Stephan Tromp, Geschäftsführer der IFS Management GmbH. „Der IFS ESG Check schafft die Grundlage, auf der Betriebe ihr Nachhaltigkeitsmanagement ausrichten, Risiken identifizieren und ihr weiteres Engagement planen können. “

Fragebogen erfasst Status Quo und ermittelt Nachholbedarf

Durch das Ausfüllen eines Fragebogens ermitteln die Unternehmen ihre aktuelle Situation und den Status Quo. Im nächsten Schritt überprüft der Auditor die Antworten. Diese Kombination aus Selbsteinschätzung und Verifizierung gewährleistet zuverlässige und vertrauenswürdige Daten. 

Die belastbaren Daten lassen sich in Abstimmung mit dem Kunden dazu nutzen, weitere Schritte zu planen. Die ergriffenen Maßnahmen dienen dazu, das Nachhaltigkeitsmanagement zu verbessern und zusätzliche Potenziale für mehr Nachhaltigkeit in der Produktion zu identifizieren. Es wird möglich sein, das übliche IFS-Zertifizierungsaudit mit dem IFS ESG-Check zu kombinieren. Der Check hilft im weiteren Verlauf auch dabei, die eigenen Fortschritte besser nachzuvollziehen und Erfolge sichtbar zu machen.

Als Basis-Modul fokussiert sich der IFS ESG Check auf die Erfassung des Sustainability Management Systems, das sowohl die Nachhaltigkeits-Policy eines Unternehmens, das Commitment des Senior Managements zu den eigenen Nachhaltigkeitszielen sowie ein zugehöriges, passendes Framework in den Fokus nimmt. Als zusätzliches Modul bietet der IFS ESG Check Unternehmen die Möglichkeit, das Carbon Footprint Management System zu evaluieren und den eigenen CO2-Fußabdruck zu ermitteln.  IFS arbeitet dafür mit der Beratungsfirma für Nachhaltigkeitsthemen Nature Office zusammen. 

Zur Vorbereitung auf den IFS ESG Check bietet IFS Unternehmen praxisorientierte Trainings an. Dazu arbeitet IFS exklusiv mit Impact Buying BV zusammen, eine B Corporation die auf Analysen, Beratung und Training zu nachhaltigen Lieferketten spezialisiert ist. 

In Zukunft werden noch weitere Module folgen, mit denen IFS seinen Kundinnen und Kunden hilft, die eigene Position möglichst genau zu bestimmen. Als zuverlässiger Partner will IFS Unternehmen helfen, ihre ökologische Transformation voranzutreiben und so den gesamtgesellschaftlichen Wandel zu beschleunigen. Wer weiß, wo er heute steht, kann definieren, wo er morgen sein wird. 

Weitere Informationen gib es hier: www.ifs-esgcheck.com