What It Is

NIST Cybersecurity Framework 2.0 (CSF 2.0) is a voluntary, risk-based guideline for cybersecurity risk management. Developed by the U.S. National Institute of Standards and Technology, it provides organizations worldwide with a flexible structure to identify, protect against, detect, respond to, recover from, and govern cybersecurity risks. Its core approach emphasizes outcomes over prescriptive controls, using a common language adaptable to any sector or size.

Key Components

• **Six Core FunctionsGovern, Identify, Protect, Detect, Respond, Recover.
• **Hierarchical structure22 Categories, 112 Subcategories with informative references to standards like ISO 27001, NIST SP 800-53.
• **Implementation TiersFour levels (Partial to Adaptive) for maturity assessment.
• **ProfilesCurrent and Target for gap analysis; no formal certification, self-attestation model.

Why Organizations Use It

Enhances risk prioritization, board communication, supply chain oversight, and compliance demonstration. Reduces incidents via structured practices, builds stakeholder trust, supports insurance discounts, and aligns with enterprise risk management without replacing existing programs.

Implementation Overview

Start with Current Profile assessment, prioritize gaps via Tiers, implement via mappings and examples. Applies universally; quick starts for SMEs (weeks), full programs 6-12 months. Involves training, policy development, tooling integration; ongoing via adaptive monitoring.

What It Is

Safe Quality Food (SQF) is a GFSI-benchmarked certification program and management system standard administered by SQFI. It ensures food safety (and optionally quality) across supply chains from farm to fork, using a HACCP-based, risk-oriented approach with modular codes for sectors like manufacturing and storage.

Key Components

• **Modular structureUniversal Module 2 (system elements: leadership, HACCP, verification, traceability) paired with sector GMPs (e.g., Module 11 for processing).
• Over 100 auditable clauses emphasizing PRPs, CAPA, internal audits.
• Built on Codex HACCP principles; includes food defense, allergens, crisis management.
• Certification via third-party audits with scoring (E/G/C/F grades).

Why Organizations Use It

• Meets retailer/brand requirements as a "license to trade".
• Reduces recalls, audits, regulatory risks (aligns with FSMA).
• Builds food safety culture, supplier trust, operational efficiency.

Implementation Overview

Phased PDCA approach: gap analysis, documentation, training, internal audits, certification audit. Applies to all sizes in food sectors globally; requires SQF Practitioner, annual surveillance audits.