TISAX
Automotive standard for information security assessments exchange
SQF
GFSI-benchmarked certification for food safety management.
Quick Verdict
TISAX ensures information security for automotive suppliers via risk-based assessments, while SQF verifies HACCP-driven food safety for manufacturers. Companies adopt TISAX for OEM contracts and SQF for retailer access, both reducing risks and enabling market entry.
TISAX
Trusted Information Security Assessment Exchange (TISAX)
Key Features
- Shares security assessments via ENX portal reducing duplicates
- Includes automotive-specific prototype protection controls
- Scales three risk-based levels AL1-AL3 maturity
- Extends ISO 27001 with VDA ISA catalog
- Issues 3-year labels for supply chain trust
SQF
SQF Food Safety Code Edition 9
Key Features
- Modular structure with Module 2 and sector GMPs
- HACCP-based Food Safety Plan mandatory
- Designated full-time SQF Practitioner role
- GFSI-benchmarked annual audits with unannounced
- Traceability, recall, and crisis management requirements
Detailed Analysis
A comprehensive look at the specific requirements, scope, and impact of each standard.
TISAX Details
What It Is
TISAX (Trusted Information Security Assessment Exchange) is an automotive industry certification framework developed by the ENX Association based on the VDA ISA catalog (v5.0.4+). It standardizes assessments to protect sensitive data like IP, prototypes, and personal information across global supply chains, using risk-based maturity levels: Basic (AL1 self-assessment), Significant (AL2 remote), Very High (AL3 on-site).
Key Components
- 70+ controls in 7 groups: Policy, Organization, Personnel, Physical Security, Access Control, Cryptography, Operations, Supplier Relationships
- Modules: Information Security, Prototype Protection (parts/vehicles/events), Data Protection
- Maturity scoring (0-3); level 3 required for labels
- Builds on ISO 27001 with sector-specific extensions
- ENX portal enables label exchange (valid 3 years)
Why Organizations Use It
- Contractual mandates from OEMs (e.g., BMW, VW) prevent revenue loss
- Mitigates breaches, IP theft, disruptions; avoids fines/reputational damage
- Efficiency gains: 70-90% audit reduction, market access
- Builds supply chain trust, enables ADAS/EV innovation
- ROI: 4-6x safety investments
Implementation Overview
Phased approach: Preparation/gap analysis (1-3 months), Remediation/tabletops (3-9 months), Audit/certification (2-4 months), ongoing sustainment. Scalable for SMEs/multinationals; costs €15k-€150k+. Accredited providers (DQS, TÜV) conduct audits.
SQF Details
What It Is
SQF (Safe Quality Food) is a GFSI-benchmarked food safety certification program administered by the SQFI. It provides a HACCP-based management system for ensuring food safety across the supply chain, from farm to fork, with optional quality modules.
Key Components
- **Modular architectureUniversal Module 2 (System Elements) paired with sector-specific GMP modules (e.g., Module 11 for manufacturing).
- Core elements: Management commitment, HACCP Food Safety Plan, PRPs, verification/validation, traceability, food defense, allergens, training.
- Built on Codex HACCP principles; annual third-party audits with scoring (E/G/C/F grades).
Why Organizations Use It
- Meets retailer/brand requirements as a 'license to trade'.
- Reduces audits, recalls, and risks; aligns with FSMA/EU regs.
- Builds food safety culture, supplier trust, and market access.
Implementation Overview
- Phased: Gap analysis, documentation, training, internal audits, certification.
- Applies to manufacturers, storage, distributors; all sizes via FSC tailoring.
- Requires SQF Practitioner, ongoing surveillance/unannounced audits. (178 words)
Key Differences
| Aspect | TISAX | SQF |
|---|---|---|
| Scope | Information security, prototype protection, CIA triad | Food safety, HACCP, GMPs, quality management |
| Industry | Automotive supply chain, global | Food manufacturing, storage, distribution, global |
| Nature | Voluntary certification, industry-driven | Voluntary GFSI-benchmarked certification |
| Testing | AL1-AL3 audits, 3-year validity, ENX providers | Annual audits, unannounced, licensed CBs |
| Penalties | Contract loss, no legal fines | Market exclusion, no legal penalties |
Scope
Industry
Nature
Testing
Penalties
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about TISAX and SQF
TISAX FAQ
SQF FAQ
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