Definition: Global Food Safety Initiative. An industry-driven initiative providing benchmarking for food safety standards, enabling mutual recognition between certified schemes and reducing audit duplication in global supply chains.
Why It Matters: Major global and South African retailers require GFSI-recognized certification from supply chain partners. GFSI certification demonstrates internationally accepted food safety credentials. Essential for cold chain operators serving major retail or export markets.
GFSI-Benchmarked Schemes (Cold Chain Relevant):
– FSSC 22000 (including transport and storage scope)
– BRC Global Standard for Storage and Distribution
– IFS Logistics
– SQF (Storage and Distribution scope)
Benchmarking Benefits:
– Mutual recognition between schemes
– Reduced audit burden (once certified, recognized)
– Global acceptance by major retailers
– Continuous improvement requirements
Related Terms: FSSC 22000, BRC, IFS Logistics, Food Safety, Certification