What It Is

SQF (Safe Quality Food) Code Edition 9 is a GFSI-benchmarked certification framework for food safety and quality management. It applies across the supply chain from farm to fork, using a HACCP-based, risk-oriented approach with modular structure: universal Module 2 (system elements) paired with sector-specific Good Practices (e.g., Module 11 GMPs).

Key Components

• Leadership commitment, document control, HACCP Food Safety Plan, verification/validation, CAPA, internal audits, traceability, recall/crisis management, food defense/fraud, allergens, training.
• Over 20 mandatory Module 2 elements; sector modules add PRPs/GMPs.
• Built on Codex/NACMCF HACCP principles; emphasizes "say what you do, do what you say, prove it."
• Third-party certification via licensed bodies, annual audits, scoring (E/G/C/F grades).

Why Organizations Use It

• Meets retailer/brand requirements as global license to trade.
• Reduces recalls, audit duplication, regulatory risks (aligns FSMA/EU).
• Builds food safety culture, supplier resilience, operational efficiency.
• Enhances market access, buyer confidence, continuous improvement.

Implementation Overview

• Phased: gap analysis, system build, training, internal audits, certification audit.
• Designate SQF Practitioner, develop docs/PRPs/HACCP, verify via records.
• Suits all sizes/industries; 6-12 months typical for mid-size sites.

What It Is

The UK General Data Protection Regulation (UK GDPR) is the UK's post-Brexit adaptation of the EU GDPR, a binding regulation enforced by the Information Commissioner’s Office (ICO). Its primary purpose is protecting personal data of UK individuals through lawful, transparent processing. It follows a risk-based, accountability-focused approach with extra-territorial scope for organizations targeting UK residents.

Key Components

• Seven core principles: lawfulness, purpose limitation, data minimisation, accuracy, storage limitation, integrity/confidentiality, and accountability.
• Data subject rights (access, rectification, erasure, portability, objection).
• Controller/processor obligations, DPIAs, breach notifications, lawful bases.
• No formal certification; compliance via demonstrable records (e.g., RoPA) and ICO enforcement.

Why Organizations Use It

• Mandatory for legal compliance to avoid fines up to 4% of global turnover.
• Manages risks from breaches, rights requests, transfers.
• Builds trust, enables data-driven innovation, ensures vendor resilience.

Implementation Overview

Phased approach: gap analysis, RoPA mapping, policies/contracts, DPIAs, training, audits. Applies to all sizes processing UK data; ongoing monitoring required, no certification but ICO audits possible. (178 words)