SQF
GFSI-benchmarked HACCP-based food safety certification standard
ISO 26000
International guidance standard for social responsibility.
Quick Verdict
SQF delivers GFSI-recognized food safety certification via HACCP and GMP audits for food chains, while ISO 26000 provides non-certifiable guidance on broad social responsibility across seven core subjects. Companies adopt SQF for market access; ISO 26000 for ethical governance.
SQF
SQF Food Safety Code Edition 9
Key Features
- Modular architecture: Module 2 backbone plus sector GMPs
- Mandatory HACCP-based Food Safety Plan implementation
- GFSI-benchmarked for global supply chain recognition
- Full-time on-site SQF Practitioner requirement
- Say-do-prove implementation triad with verification
ISO 26000
ISO 26000:2010 Guidance on social responsibility
Key Features
- Seven core subjects for holistic social responsibility
- Seven principles including accountability and transparency
- Non-certifiable guidance applicable to all organizations
- Stakeholder engagement for issue prioritization
- Integration with management systems like ISO 14001
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 framework administered by SQFI. It ensures food safety across supply chains using a HACCP-based, risk-oriented approach from farm to fork, with modular structure for sectors like manufacturing and storage.
Key Components
- **Module 2Universal system elements (management commitment, HACCP plan, verification, traceability).
- Sector modules (e.g., Module 11 GMPs for processing).
- Built on Codex HACCP principles; ~mandatory elements like SQF Practitioner role.
- Third-party audits with scoring (E/G/C/F grades), unannounced checks.
Why Organizations Use It
- Meets retailer mandates for market access.
- Reduces recalls, audit duplication via GFSI recognition.
- Enhances resilience, due diligence aligning with FSMA/EU regs.
- Builds trust, operational efficiency, food safety culture.
Implementation Overview
Phased PDCA: gap analysis, document HACCP/PRPs, train staff, internal audits, certify via licensed CBs. Suits all sizes/industries; 6-12 months typical, annual surveillance.
ISO 26000 Details
What It Is
ISO 26000:2010 is an international guidance standard on social responsibility, providing a voluntary framework for organizations to address impacts on society and the environment. Its primary purpose is to promote sustainable development through transparent, ethical behavior, applicable to all organization types regardless of size or location. It uses a principles-based, stakeholder-engaged approach rather than prescriptive requirements.
Key Components
- **Seven core subjectsorganizational governance, human rights, labor practices, environment, fair operating practices, consumer issues, community involvement.
- **Seven principlesaccountability, transparency, ethical behavior, respect for stakeholder interests, rule of law, international norms, human rights.
- No fixed controls; holistic integration encouraged.
- Non-certifiable; focuses on self-assessment and reporting.
Why Organizations Use It
- Enhances risk management, resilience, and ESG alignment.
- Builds stakeholder trust and reputation without certification burdens.
- Supports compliance with norms like OECD, UNGPs, SDGs.
- Drives competitive advantages in procurement, talent, markets.
Implementation Overview
- Phased: gap analysis, materiality assessment, policy integration, training, reporting.
- Applies universally; integrates with ISO 14001/45001.
- No audits required; uses transparency and stakeholder validation. (178 words)
Key Differences
| Aspect | SQF | ISO 26000 |
|---|---|---|
| Scope | Food safety, HACCP, GMPs, quality | Social responsibility, 7 core subjects, HES |
| Industry | Food supply chain, manufacturing | All organizations, all sectors |
| Nature | GFSI-benchmarked certification | Non-certifiable guidance standard |
| Testing | Annual third-party audits, unannounced | Self-assessment, stakeholder engagement |
| Penalties | Certification loss, audit failure | No penalties, reputational risks |
Scope
Industry
Nature
Testing
Penalties
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about SQF and ISO 26000
SQF FAQ
ISO 26000 FAQ
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