NIST 800-171
U.S. standard protecting CUI confidentiality in nonfederal systems
SQF
GFSI-benchmarked certification for food safety management
Quick Verdict
NIST 800-171 safeguards CUI for defense contractors via contractual cybersecurity controls, while SQF ensures food safety through GFSI-certified management systems. Organizations adopt NIST for DoD compliance and SQF for retailer market access.
NIST 800-171
NIST SP 800-171 Protecting CUI in Nonfederal Systems
Key Features
- Scoped to CUI-processing and protective components
- 110 requirements in 14 families from 800-53 Moderate
- Mandates SSP and POA&M for implementation evidence
- Supports CUI enclave isolation for scoping efficiency
- Contract-enforced via DFARS for DoD contractors
SQF
Safe Quality Food (SQF) Code
Key Features
- Modular structure: Module 2 plus sector GMPs
- HACCP-based Food Safety Plan mandatory
- Designated full-time SQF Practitioner required
- GFSI-benchmarked for global retailer acceptance
- Annual audits with unannounced options
Detailed Analysis
A comprehensive look at the specific requirements, scope, and impact of each standard.
NIST 800-171 Details
What It Is
NIST SP 800-171 Revision 3 is a U.S. government framework providing security requirements for protecting Controlled Unclassified Information (CUI) confidentiality in nonfederal systems. Tailored from NIST SP 800-53 Moderate, it uses a control-based approach focused on nonfederal contractors handling CUI via contracts.
Key Components
- 97-110 requirements across 14-17 families (e.g., Access Control, Audit, Configuration Management; Rev 3 adds Planning, Supply Chain Risk).
- Built on FIPS 200 and SP 800-53 baselines.
- Requires System Security Plan (SSP) and Plan of Action & Milestones (POA&M).
- Companion SP 800-171A for examine/interview/test assessments.
Why Organizations Use It
- Mandatory for DoD contractors via DFARS 252.204-7012 safeguarding CDI/CUI.
- Reduces breach risks, ensures contract eligibility.
- Builds CMMC Level 2 readiness, enhances supply chain trust.
- Provides FedRAMP Moderate cloud equivalence.
Implementation Overview
- Phased: scope CUI enclave, gap analysis, implement controls, evidence collection.
- Applies to contractors handling CUI; scalable by size.
- Self-assessment or third-party audits via SPRS/CMMC; ongoing monitoring essential.
SQF Details
What It Is
Safe Quality Food (SQF) is a GFSI-benchmarked certification program administered by SQFI, focusing on food safety and quality across the supply chain. It employs a HACCP-based, risk-oriented approach with modular structure for sectors like manufacturing and storage.
Key Components
- **Module 2Universal system elements (management commitment, HACCP plan, verification, traceability).
- Sector-specific modules (e.g., Module 11 for GMPs).
- Built on Codex HACCP principles; mandatory elements like SQF Practitioner and internal audits.
- Certification via third-party audits with scoring (E/G/C/F grades).
Why Organizations Use It
- Meets retailer/brand requirements as "license to trade".
- Reduces recalls, audit duplication; aligns with FSMA/EU regs.
- Enhances risk management, supplier controls, resilience.
- Builds stakeholder trust, market access, efficiency.
Implementation Overview
- Phased: gap analysis, documentation, training, audits.
- Applies to food manufacturers, storage; all sizes.
- Requires SQF Practitioner, annual audits (unannounced possible).
Key Differences
| Aspect | NIST 800-171 | SQF |
|---|---|---|
| Scope | CUI confidentiality in nonfederal systems | Food safety/quality management systems |
| Industry | Defense contractors, federal supply chains | Food manufacturing, storage, distribution |
| Nature | Contractual cybersecurity requirements | GFSI-benchmarked certification program |
| Testing | SPRS scoring, CMMC assessments | Annual third-party audits, unannounced |
| Penalties | Contract ineligibility, SPRS score loss | Certification loss, market access denial |
Scope
Industry
Nature
Testing
Penalties
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about NIST 800-171 and SQF
NIST 800-171 FAQ
SQF FAQ
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