SQF
GFSI-benchmarked HACCP-based food safety certification standard
FedRAMP
U.S. program standardizing federal cloud security authorization.
Quick Verdict
SQF ensures food safety certification for global supply chains, while FedRAMP mandates standardized cloud security for US federal agencies. Food companies adopt SQF for market access; cloud providers pursue FedRAMP to win government contracts.
SQF
Safe Quality Food (SQF) Code Edition 9
Key Features
- Modular structure: Module 2 backbone plus sector GMPs
- HACCP-based food safety plan with validation
- GFSI-benchmarked global certification program
- Mandatory full-time on-site SQF Practitioner
- Say-do-prove implementation philosophy with audits
FedRAMP
Federal Risk and Authorization Management Program
Key Features
- Reusable authorizations across federal agencies
- NIST SP 800-53 baselines at Low/Moderate/High levels
- Independent 3PAO security assessments required
- Continuous monitoring with monthly/quarterly reporting
- FedRAMP Marketplace for visibility and procurement
Detailed Analysis
A comprehensive look at the specific requirements, scope, and impact of each standard.
SQF Details
What It Is
Safe Quality Food (SQF) Code Edition 9 is a GFSI-benchmarked certification framework for food safety and quality management. It applies across supply chains from farm to fork, using a HACCP-based, risk-oriented approach with modular structure.
Key Components
- **Module 2Universal system elements (management commitment, HACCP plan, verification, traceability, food defense, allergens, training).
- Sector-specific modules (e.g., Module 11 for manufacturing GMPs).
- Built on Codex HACCP principles; ~mandatory clauses with PRPs.
- Third-party audits with scoring (E/G/C/F grades).
Why Organizations Use It
- Meets retailer mandates for market access.
- Reduces recalls, audit duplication, enhances resilience.
- Builds food safety culture via leadership accountability.
- GFSI recognition aligns with FSMA/EU regs; boosts trust.
Implementation Overview
- Phased: gap analysis, documentation, training, internal audits, certification.
- Designate SQF Practitioner; 6-12 months typical.
- Suits all sizes/industries; annual surveillance audits required.
FedRAMP Details
What It Is
FedRAMP (Federal Risk and Authorization Management Program) is a U.S. government-wide framework standardizing security assessment, authorization, and continuous monitoring for cloud services used by federal agencies. Its primary purpose is to enable secure, reusable cloud adoption via NIST SP 800-53 controls tailored to FIPS 199 impact levels (Low, Moderate, High), reducing duplication through a risk-based approach.
Key Components
- Baselines with ~156 (Low), ~323 (Moderate), ~410 (High) controls, plus LI-SaaS for low-risk SaaS.
- Core artifacts: SSP, SAR, POA&M; independent 3PAO assessments.
- Built on NIST SP 800-53 Rev 5; continuous monitoring playbook.
- Agency or Program authorizations listed in FedRAMP Marketplace.
Why Organizations Use It
- Mandatory for federal cloud procurement; unlocks contracts worth millions.
- Enhances security posture, enables reuse across agencies.
- Builds trust, differentiates in market; supports AI/commercial cloud.
Implementation Overview
- Phased: gap analysis, documentation, 3PAO assessment, authorization (10-19 months).
- High costs ($150k-$2M+); suits CSPs targeting U.S. federal market.
- Requires A2LA-accredited 3PAOs, ongoing automation/telemetry.
Key Differences
| Aspect | SQF | FedRAMP |
|---|---|---|
| Scope | Food safety management across supply chain | Cloud security assessment and monitoring |
| Industry | Food manufacturing, storage, distribution globally | US federal cloud service providers |
| Nature | Voluntary GFSI-benchmarked certification | Mandatory standardized authorization program |
| Testing | Annual third-party audits with unannounced checks | 3PAO assessments plus continuous monitoring |
| Penalties | Loss of certification and market access | Revocation of authorization and contract loss |
Scope
Industry
Nature
Testing
Penalties
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about SQF and FedRAMP
SQF FAQ
FedRAMP FAQ
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