SQF
GFSI-benchmarked HACCP-based food safety certification standard
ISO 21001
International standard for educational organizations management systems
Quick Verdict
SQF ensures food safety via HACCP and GMPs for food industry supply chains, while ISO 21001 builds learner-centered management systems for educational organizations. Food companies adopt SQF for GFSI recognition and market access; educators seek ISO 21001 for quality assurance and stakeholder satisfaction.
SQF
SQF Food Safety Code Edition 9
Key Features
- Modular structure: Module 2 plus sector-specific GMP modules
- GFSI-benchmarked for global retailer acceptance
- Mandates full-time onsite SQF Practitioner role
- HACCP-based Food Safety Plan with validation
- Graded scoring audits with unannounced options
ISO 21001
ISO 21001 Educational organizations management systems
Key Features
- Learner-centered processes and satisfaction focus
- Annex SL structure for ISO integration
- Curriculum design and assessment controls
- Risk-based planning with PDCA cycle
- Data protection and accessibility requirements
Detailed Analysis
A comprehensive look at the specific requirements, scope, and impact of each standard.
SQF Details
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.
Key Components
- **Module 2Universal system elements (management commitment, HACCP plan, verification, traceability).
- Sector modules (e.g., Module 11 GMPs for manufacturing).
- Built on Codex HACCP principles; over 20 mandatory elements.
- Third-party certification via licensed bodies with annual audits and scoring (E/G/C/F grades).
Why Organizations Use It
- Meets retailer mandates for market access.
- Reduces recalls, audit duplication, and supply risks.
- Builds food safety culture via leadership accountability.
- Enhances resilience through traceability and crisis planning.
Implementation Overview
- Phased: gap analysis, documentation, training, internal audits, certification.
- Suits all sizes in food sectors globally.
- Requires SQF Practitioner; 6-12 months typical timeline.
ISO 21001 Details
What It Is
ISO 21001:2018 (updated to 2025) is an international standard specifying requirements for an Educational Organizations Management System (EOMS). It provides a sector-specific framework for organizations delivering educational services, focusing on learner-centered processes, competence development, and continual improvement via the Annex SL High-Level Structure and PDCA cycle.
Key Components
- Core clauses: context, leadership, planning, support, operation, performance evaluation, improvement.
- Education-specific elements: curriculum design, assessment validation, learner data protection, accessibility.
- 11 principles including learner focus, ethical conduct, equity.
- Certification through accredited bodies with staged audits.
Why Organizations Use It
- Enhances learner satisfaction, retention, outcomes.
- Manages risks like data breaches, assessment integrity.
- Builds trust with stakeholders, employers, regulators.
- Provides competitive edge via international recognition.
Implementation Overview
- Phased approach: gap analysis, process mapping, training, pilots, audits.
- Applicable to all sizes/types of educational providers globally.
- Involves leadership commitment, templates like VET21001 for efficiency.
Key Differences
| Aspect | SQF | ISO 21001 |
|---|---|---|
| Scope | Food safety management across supply chain | Educational organization management system |
| Industry | Food manufacturing, storage, distribution globally | Educational institutions, training providers worldwide |
| Nature | GFSI-benchmarked voluntary certification | Annex SL voluntary management system standard |
| Testing | Annual third-party audits, unannounced audits | Internal audits, management review, certification audits |
| Penalties | Certification loss, market access denial | No legal penalties, certification withdrawal |
Scope
Industry
Nature
Testing
Penalties
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about SQF and ISO 21001
SQF FAQ
ISO 21001 FAQ
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