The SQF Program Across a Supply Chain

From the cacao producer

From the cacao producer that makes the chocolate for the chocolate chips, to the sugar cane processor, to the packaging supplier, every cookie manufacturer’s supply chain partner can implement the SQF Program—creating a chain of food safety that inspires brand confidence.

Here’s how this works across a supply chain:

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Farm to Fork

The SQF Program offers customized features for different food sector categories (FSC), guaranteeing a continuous food safety monitoring system across the supply chain. Recognized by retailers and regulators worldwide, the SQF Code covers 12 industry scopes and 27 food sector categories, including pet food, storage and distribution, primary plant production, and more. We’re proud to have endorsements from many retailers for supplier approval processes. The cookie maker can be confident in the food safety practices throughout their supply chain, starting with the primary grower and continuing through the supply chain. 
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Supplier Approval

Not only does the SQF Program cover the entire food chain, but a supplier approval program is also incorporated into the code in section 2.3.4. The code is written for sites to take a risk-based approach to approving suppliers and ingredients to achieve food safety.

An approved supplier program is a set of procedures and controls implemented by the sites to assure the safety of incoming goods and services. It may be based on the risks presented by the material or based on the historical performance of the supplier.

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One Standard. One World.

Across the supply chain—from the producer, manufacturer, food packaging manufacturer, distributor, and retailer—our cookie maker’s supply chain using the SQF Program operates under one standard worldwide, creating a universal food safety culture. 
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Continuously Updated

Our cookie manufacturer doesn’t have to worry about their food safety practices becoming dated because the SQF Program is continuously updated based on the latest science and regulations. In fact, the cookie manufacturer can participate in the process through the SQF public comment process.
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The preparation for initial SQF certification takes an estimated 6 to 8 months and is designed to build confidence in your product and brand. Our Get Certified section has details on this process and resources to help along the way.

Contact Us to get started

Learn more about The SQF Difference