SOC 2 vs BRC
SOC 2
AICPA framework for Trust Services Criteria controls
BRC
Global standard for food safety in manufacturing
Quick Verdict
SOC 2 provides voluntary data security attestation for tech/SaaS firms via CPA audits, while BRC delivers GFSI-benchmarked food safety certification for manufacturers through on-site audits. Tech firms adopt SOC 2 for enterprise trust; food producers pursue BRC for retailer access.
SOC 2
System and Organization Controls 2
Key Features
- Evaluates five Trust Services Criteria with mandatory Security
- Type 2 reports test operating effectiveness over 3-12 months
- Flexible scoping tailored to service organization risks
- Independent CPA attestation builds stakeholder assurance
- Overlaps significantly with ISO 27001 and HIPAA controls
BRC
BRCGS Global Standard for Food Safety
Key Features
- GFSI-benchmarked third-party food safety certification
- Nine core clauses with fundamental requirements
- Codex HACCP integrated with prerequisite programs
- Risk zoning and environmental monitoring emphasis
- Graded audits including unannounced options
Detailed Analysis
A comprehensive look at the specific requirements, scope, and impact of each standard.
SOC 2 Details
What It Is
SOC 2, or System and Organization Controls 2, is a voluntary attestation framework developed by the AICPA. It evaluates service organizations' commitments to Trust Services Criteria (TSC)—security (mandatory), availability, processing integrity, confidentiality, and privacy. The control-based, risk-focused approach provides independent assurance on data handling systems.
Key Components
- Five TSC domains, with Security (CC1-CC9 Common Criteria) always included.
- Type 1 assesses design at a point-in-time; Type 2 verifies operating effectiveness over 3-12 months.
- Built on AICPA principles; requires 50-100 controls with redundancy.
- CPA-led audits yield detailed reports.
Why Organizations Use It
- Accelerates sales by satisfying enterprise due diligence (80-90% questionnaire coverage).
- Mitigates breach risks, enhances resilience (99.99% uptime).
- Builds trust with clients, investors; unlocks markets like SaaS marketplaces.
- Voluntary yet often contractually mandated; ROI via higher ACVs in months.
Implementation Overview
- Phased: scoping/gap analysis (4-8 weeks), deployment/monitoring (3-6 months), audit.
- Targets SaaS/cloud providers, all sizes; automation (Vanta) reduces effort.
- Annual recertification with bridge letters for continuity.
BRC Details
What It Is
BRCGS Global Standard for Food Safety is a GFSI-benchmarked third-party certification framework for food manufacturers, processors, and packers. It focuses on product safety, legality, authenticity, and quality via a structured system integrating senior management commitment, Codex HACCP-based plans, and robust prerequisite programs (GMP/GHP) to control contamination, fraud, and operational risks.
Key Components
- Nine core clauses covering governance, HACCP, FSQMS, site standards, product/process controls, personnel, high-risk zoning, traded products.
- 12 fundamental requirements (e.g., internal audits, traceability, allergen management) essential for certification.
- Performance-based grading (AA/A/B/C/D, + for unannounced audits); built on risk assessments and root cause analysis.
Why Organizations Use It
Enables retailer supply chain access, reduces duplicate audits, evidences due diligence, mitigates recalls (allergens, pathogens, labelling). Builds trust, operational resilience, and aligns with regulations like FSMA.
Implementation Overview
Phased: gap analysis, HACCP development, training, internal audits, certification by accredited bodies. Suits global food manufacturers; 6-12 months typical, high complexity due to site upgrades and documentation.
Key Differences
| Aspect | SOC 2 | BRC |
|---|---|---|
| Scope | Security, availability, confidentiality, privacy, integrity of data systems | Food safety, HACCP, site standards, product/process control, personnel hygiene |
| Industry | SaaS, cloud, tech, fintech; global, all sizes | Food manufacturing, packaging, storage; global retailers, manufacturers |
| Nature | Voluntary AICPA attestation framework | GFSI-benchmarked certification standard |
| Testing | Type 2 audits over 3-12 months by CPA firms | Annual on-site audits, announced/unannounced by certification bodies |
| Penalties | Loss of attestation, market access denial | Certification suspension/denial, retailer delisting |
Scope
Industry
Nature
Testing
Penalties
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about SOC 2 and BRC
SOC 2 FAQ
BRC FAQ
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