What is the primary objective of **SQF**?

**The primary objective of SQF is to provide a rigorous, HACCP-based food safety management system that assures consistent production of safe food products across the supply chain.** Administered by the SQF Institute (SQFI), SQF combines universal **Module 2 System Elements** (management commitment, HACCP Food Safety Plan, verification, traceability) with sector-specific Good Practices modules (e.g., **Module 11** for food manufacturing GMPs). This GFSI-benchmarked framework ensures organizations "say what you do, do what you say, and prove it" through documented controls, implementation, and records, minimizing hazards from farm to fork.

Who is legally or professionally required to comply with **SQF**?

**SQF compliance is not legally mandated but is a professional requirement for suppliers to major retailers, brand owners, and foodservice providers worldwide.** Over 14,000 certified sites in 40+ countries use SQF as a "license to trade," particularly in food manufacturing (**Module 2 + Module 11**), storage/distribution, packaging, and primary production. Sites must designate a full-time, on-site **SQF Practitioner** (HACCP-trained, competent in the Code) and implement mandatory elements like Food Safety Policy (2.1.1) and Approved Supplier Program (2.4.4).

Does **SQF** require an external audit or third-party certification?

**Yes, SQF requires annual external audits by SQFI-licensed Certification Bodies (CBs) accredited to ISO/IEC 17065, culminating in third-party certification.** Initial certification, surveillance, and recertification audits scope products, processes, and modules (e.g., **Module 2 + 11**). Unannounced audits occur periodically (e.g., every 3 years). Scores range E (96-100) to F (<70), with nonconformities graded minor (1 pt), major (5 pts), or critical (50 pts); certification demands effective CAPA closure.

How often should an assessment for **SQF** be performed?

**SQF requires annual external certification audits, supplemented by internal audits at planned frequencies covering all elements.** **Management reviews** occur at least annually (with monthly SQF Practitioner updates), while verification (2.5.2) and validation (2.5.1) are ongoing. Crisis/recall plans must be tested annually. Pre-certification gap assessments are recommended 60-90 days prior, with internal audits scheduled to generate trend data for continuous improvement.

What are the consequences of non-compliance with **SQF**?

**Non-compliance with SQF results in audit failure, certification denial/suspension, and commercial exclusion from GFSI-recognized supply chains.** Critical nonconformities (e.g., uncontrolled hazards) trigger immediate suspension; majors/minors require CAPA within 30 days. Persistent failures lead to lost retailer contracts, duplicative audits, recalls, and reputational damage. No direct legal fines, but it exposes sites to regulatory scrutiny (e.g., FSMA gaps) and higher insurance premiums.

Can **SQF** be mapped to other international frameworks?

**Yes, SQF maps closely to GFSI-benchmarked frameworks through its HACCP foundation and management system structure.** **Module 2** aligns with shared elements like document control (2.2), internal audits (2.5.5), and CAPA (2.5.3), enabling layering (e.g., SQF Quality Code atop existing HACCP/ISO 22000). GFSI recognition harmonizes with global regulatory logic (Codex, FSMA preventive controls), reducing audit duplication while maintaining SQF-specific PRP/GMP requirements.

What is the first step to begin implementing **SQF**?

**The first step to implement SQF is site registration in the SQFI assessment database and designation of a competent, full-time SQF Practitioner.** Select applicable modules (e.g., **Module 2 + sector GMP**), conduct a gap assessment against Edition 9 (effective May 2021), and develop the signed Food Safety Policy (2.1.1). This establishes governance before documenting HACCP plans and PRPs.

What is the primary objective of **APRA CPS 234**?

**APRA CPS 234 requires APRA-regulated entities to maintain an information security capability commensurate with threats and vulnerabilities to their information assets.** This enables continued sound operation and minimizes the likelihood and impact of incidents on confidentiality, integrity, or availability, including assets managed by related parties or third parties (paragraphs 1, 15-16).

Who is legally or professionally required to comply with **APRA CPS 234**?

**APRA CPS 234 applies to all APRA-regulated entities, including authorised deposit-taking institutions (ADIs), general insurers, life companies, private health insurers, and RSE licensees.** It extends group-wide for Heads of groups, covering non-regulated entities, and to Australian operations of foreign ADIs, Category C insurers, and eligible foreign life companies (paragraphs 2-4). Boards hold ultimate responsibility (paragraph 13).

Does **APRA CPS 234** require an external audit or third-party certification?

**APRA CPS 234 does not mandate external audit or third-party certification.** It requires internal audit to review design and operating effectiveness of controls, including those of third parties, using appropriately skilled personnel (paragraphs 32-34). Systematic testing must be performed by functionally independent specialists (paragraph 30), which may involve external providers.

How often should an assessment for **APRA CPS 234** be performed?

**CPS 234 requires the testing program to be reviewed at least annually, or upon material change to information assets or the business environment.** Testing frequency must be commensurate with vulnerability/threat change rate, asset criticality/sensitivity, incident consequences, and exposure to untrusted environments (paragraphs 27, 31). Incident response plans must be reviewed and tested annually (paragraph 26).

What are the consequences of non-compliance with **APRA CPS 234**?

**Non-compliance with CPS 234 exposes entities to APRA's prudential powers, including remediation directions, enforcement notices, penalties, and heightened supervision.** It risks operational disruption, loss of license, litigation, reputational damage, and business interruption from incidents (paragraphs 9, 11). Material incidents require notification within 72 hours; unremediable control weaknesses within 10 business days (paragraphs 35-36).

Can **APRA CPS 234** be mapped to other international frameworks?

**Yes, CPS 234's outcomes-based requirements for governance, controls, testing, and third-party oversight align with frameworks like ISO 27001 and NIST Cybersecurity Framework.** Entities commonly map its commensurate capability (paragraph 15), asset classification (paragraph 20), and systematic testing (paragraph 27) to these for operationalization, while retaining CPS 234's Board accountability and notification timelines.

What is the first step to begin implementing **APRA CPS 234**?

**The first step is securing explicit Board approval and sponsorship for the program, establishing governance including defined roles and responsibilities.** The Board is ultimately accountable (paragraph 13); conduct baseline evidence collection of policies, asset inventories, and third-party arrangements to scope gaps against CPS 234 requirements (paragraphs 14, 20).

SQF vs APRA CPS 234

Q: How often should an assessment for **SQF** be performed?

**SQF requires annual external certification audits, supplemented by internal audits at planned frequencies covering all elements.** **Management reviews** occur at least annually (with monthly SQF Practitioner updates), while verification (2.5.2) and validation (2.5.1) are ongoing. Crisis/recall plans must be tested annually. Pre-certification gap assessments are recommended 60-90 days prior, with internal audits scheduled to generate trend data for continuous improvement.

Q: What are the consequences of non-compliance with **SQF**?

**Non-compliance with SQF results in audit failure, certification denial/suspension, and commercial exclusion from GFSI-recognized supply chains.** Critical nonconformities (e.g., uncontrolled hazards) trigger immediate suspension; majors/minors require CAPA within 30 days. Persistent failures lead to lost retailer contracts, duplicative audits, recalls, and reputational damage. No direct legal fines, but it exposes sites to regulatory scrutiny (e.g., FSMA gaps) and higher insurance premiums.

Q: Can **SQF** be mapped to other international frameworks?

**Yes, SQF maps closely to GFSI-benchmarked frameworks through its HACCP foundation and management system structure.** **Module 2** aligns with shared elements like document control (2.2), internal audits (2.5.5), and CAPA (2.5.3), enabling layering (e.g., SQF Quality Code atop existing HACCP/ISO 22000). GFSI recognition harmonizes with global regulatory logic (Codex, FSMA preventive controls), reducing audit duplication while maintaining SQF-specific PRP/GMP requirements.

Q: What is the first step to begin implementing **SQF**?

**The first step to implement SQF is site registration in the SQFI assessment database and designation of a competent, full-time SQF Practitioner.** Select applicable modules (e.g., **Module 2 + sector GMP**), conduct a gap assessment against Edition 9 (effective May 2021), and develop the signed Food Safety Policy (2.1.1). This establishes governance before documenting HACCP plans and PRPs.

Q: What is the primary objective of **APRA CPS 234**?

**APRA CPS 234 requires APRA-regulated entities to maintain an information security capability commensurate with threats and vulnerabilities to their information assets.** This enables continued sound operation and minimizes the likelihood and impact of incidents on confidentiality, integrity, or availability, including assets managed by related parties or third parties (paragraphs 1, 15-16).

Q: Who is legally or professionally required to comply with **APRA CPS 234**?

**APRA CPS 234 applies to all APRA-regulated entities, including authorised deposit-taking institutions (ADIs), general insurers, life companies, private health insurers, and RSE licensees.** It extends group-wide for Heads of groups, covering non-regulated entities, and to Australian operations of foreign ADIs, Category C insurers, and eligible foreign life companies (paragraphs 2-4). Boards hold ultimate responsibility (paragraph 13).

Q: Does **APRA CPS 234** require an external audit or third-party certification?

**APRA CPS 234 does not mandate external audit or third-party certification.** It requires internal audit to review design and operating effectiveness of controls, including those of third parties, using appropriately skilled personnel (paragraphs 32-34). Systematic testing must be performed by functionally independent specialists (paragraph 30), which may involve external providers.

Standards Comparison

SQF

Voluntary

2023

GFSI-benchmarked certification for food safety management

APRA CPS 234

Mandatory

2019

Australian prudential standard for information security resilience

Quick Verdict

SQF ensures food safety certification for global supply chains, while APRA CPS 234 mandates information security resilience for Australian financial entities. Food companies adopt SQF for market access; banks use CPS 234 to avoid regulatory penalties and ensure operational continuity.

Agile Scaling

SQF

SQF Food Safety Code Edition 9

Cost

€€€€

Complexity

High

Implementation Time

6-12 months

Key Features

Modular architecture: Module 2 plus sector-specific GMPs
GFSI-benchmarked for global retailer recognition
HACCP-based food safety plan with validation
Mandatory full-time onsite SQF Practitioner role
Graded audits with unannounced verification

Information Security

APRA CPS 234

APRA Prudential Standard CPS 234 Information Security

Cost

€€€€

Complexity

High

Implementation Time

12-18 months

Key Features

Board ultimate responsibility for information security
72-hour APRA notification for material incidents
Systematic independent testing and assurance of controls
Asset classification by criticality and sensitivity
Third-party managed assets fully in scope

Detailed Analysis

A comprehensive look at the specific requirements, scope, and impact of each standard.

SQF Details

What It Is

SQF Food Safety Code Edition 9 is a GFSI-benchmarked certification program administered by SQFI. It ensures food safety across supply chains from farm to fork via HACCP-based risk management and modular Good Practices.

Key Components

**Module 2Universal system elements (management commitment, HACCP plan, verification, traceability).
Sector modules (e.g., Module 11 for manufacturing GMPs).
Built on Codex HACCP principles; ~100 auditable clauses.
Graded certification with annual audits, unannounced checks.

Why Organizations Use It

Meets retailer mandates for market access.
Reduces recalls, audit duplication via GFSI recognition.
Enhances risk control, supplier assurance, resilience.
Builds stakeholder trust, food safety culture.

Implementation Overview

Phased: gap analysis, documentation, training, internal audits, certification.
Applies to manufacturers, storage, all sizes globally.
Requires SQF Practitioner, third-party audits by licensed CBs.

APRA CPS 234 Details

What It Is

APRA Prudential Standard CPS 234 (Information Security) is a binding prudential regulation from the Australian Prudential Regulation Authority, effective 1 July 2019. It requires APRA-regulated entities to maintain information security capabilities commensurate with threats and vulnerabilities, minimizing impacts on confidentiality, integrity, and availability of information assets. The risk-based approach demands proportionate governance, controls, testing, and notification.

Key Components

Board accountability and defined roles/responsibilities
Asset identification, classification by criticality/sensitivity
Lifecycle controls, systematic testing, independent assurance
Incident detection/response plans with annual testing
72-hour APRA notification for material incidents; 10-day for control weaknesses
Third-party capability assessments and oversight Outcomes-focused with no fixed control count; relies on internal audit and APRA supervision.

Why Organizations Use It

Mandatory for banks, insurers, super funds under APRA
Reduces operational/regulatory risks, avoids penalties
Enhances resilience, customer trust, competitive edge
Supports partnerships, cost efficiencies via strong governance

Implementation Overview

Phased: gap analysis, policy/governance setup, asset register, controls/testing, monitoring. Applies Australia-wide to regulated entities of all sizes; ongoing compliance via evidence, audits, no certification. (178 words)

Key Differences

Aspect	SQF	APRA CPS 234
Scope	Food safety management and quality across supply chain	Information security and cyber resilience for financial assets
Industry	Global food manufacturing, storage, distribution	Australian banks, insurers, superannuation funds
Nature	Voluntary GFSI-benchmarked certification	Mandatory prudential regulation with enforcement
Testing	Annual third-party audits, internal audits	Systematic independent testing, internal audit assurance
Penalties	Loss of certification, market access denial	Regulatory sanctions, fines, supervisory actions

Scope

SQF

Food safety management and quality across supply chain

APRA CPS 234

Information security and cyber resilience for financial assets

Industry

SQF

Global food manufacturing, storage, distribution

APRA CPS 234

Australian banks, insurers, superannuation funds

Nature

SQF

Voluntary GFSI-benchmarked certification

APRA CPS 234

Mandatory prudential regulation with enforcement

Testing

SQF

Annual third-party audits, internal audits

APRA CPS 234

Systematic independent testing, internal audit assurance

Penalties

SQF

Loss of certification, market access denial

APRA CPS 234

Regulatory sanctions, fines, supervisory actions

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about SQF and APRA CPS 234

SQF FAQ

APRA CPS 234 FAQ

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SQF

APRA CPS 234

Quick Verdict

SQF

Key Features

APRA CPS 234

Key Features

Detailed Analysis

SQF Details

What It Is

Key Components

Why Organizations Use It

Implementation Overview

APRA CPS 234 Details

What It Is

Key Components

Why Organizations Use It

Implementation Overview

Key Differences

Scope

Industry

Nature

Testing

Penalties

Frequently Asked Questions

SQF FAQ

What is the primary objective of SQF?

Who is legally or professionally required to comply with SQF?

Does SQF require an external audit or third-party certification?

How often should an assessment for SQF be performed?

What are the consequences of non-compliance with SQF?

Can SQF be mapped to other international frameworks?

What is the first step to begin implementing SQF?

APRA CPS 234 FAQ

What is the primary objective of APRA CPS 234?

Who is legally or professionally required to comply with APRA CPS 234?

Does APRA CPS 234 require an external audit or third-party certification?

How often should an assessment for APRA CPS 234 be performed?

What are the consequences of non-compliance with APRA CPS 234?

Can APRA CPS 234 be mapped to other international frameworks?

What is the first step to begin implementing APRA CPS 234?

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Top 10 Cost-Saving Hacks for CMMC Compliance: Budgeting Blueprints for Small DIB Suppliers

Scaling Compliance: How Modern Tools Transform Lean Teams into Regulatory Powerhouses

From Reactive Gatekeeper to Proactive Strategist: How Compliance Software Reshapes the Compliance Professional's Day

Run Maturity Assessments with GRADUM

Check out these other Gradum.io Standards Comparison Pages

OSHA vs NERC CIP

WEEE vs ISO 55001

ISO 14001 vs NIST 800-171