By Carey Allen, Vice President, Business Development & Strategy, SQFI
Why Dietary Supplement Manufacturers Need a Fast Track to Retail
The dietary supplements market is booming, but with growth comes increased scrutiny from retailers, regulatory bodies, 
and consumers. Ensuring safety and quality is not just essential—it’s non-negotiable. Meeting these expectations while navigating complex compliance requirements can be daunting for manufacturers. The SQF Dietary Supplements Code is a solution tailored to help manufacturers streamline compliance, build retailer trust, and meet the requirements of platforms like Amazon. By simplifying the certification path, SQF helps you demonstrate your commitment to quality and safety—positioning your products for success in mainstream retail.
What is the SQF Dietary Supplements Code?
The SQF (Safe Quality Food) Dietary Supplements Code is a globally recognized certification program designed specifically for dietary supplement manufacturers. It helps producers meet strict food safety and quality standards, comply with FDA regulations, and align with the expectations of major retailers. This specialized code is an ideal tool for supplement producers who want to elevate their safety systems, improve operational efficiency, and stand out in a competitive market.
Reasons You Need to Know About the SQF Dietary Supplements Code
Why should dietary supplement manufacturers prioritize the SQF Dietary Supplements Code?
Retailer Confidence: Major retailers and platforms like Amazon expect certified safety and quality standards, and SQF certification ensures you exceed their expectations.
Regulatory Compliance: Align with FDA regulations, including CFR 111 and GMP guidelines, while implementing a robust safety framework.
Market Access: Certification helps you gain entry to larger retail markets and platforms requiring accredited audits.
Step-by-Step Instructions to Fast-Track Retail Success with SQF
Step 1. Learn the Basics of the SQF Dietary Supplements Code: Familiarize yourself with the code’s requirements and how they apply to your production process. The “Decoding Dietary Supplements” digital seminar is an excellent starting point, offering expert guidance on navigating SQF certification and meeting retailer requirements.
Step 2. Perform a Readiness Assessment: Evaluate your current practices to identify gaps. This involves reviewing your documentation, testing procedures, and staff training to ensure they align with the SQF Dietary Supplements Code.
Step 3. Build and Implement a Safety and Quality Management Plan: Develop a comprehensive food safety management system that addresses hazards, implements preventative controls, and ensures proper documentation to meet SQF standards.
Key Considerations for Successfully Using the SQF Dietary Supplements Code
Accredited vs. Unaccredited Audits: Understand why an accredited audit might be more valuable than an unaccredited one for dietary supplements. Accreditation ensures compliance with recognized standards and adds credibility for retailers.
Understanding Regulatory Differences: Learn how the SQF Code compares to CFR 111 and GMP audits to identify the best approach for your operations.
Retailer-Specific Requirements: Tailor your certification to meet the unique needs of your target retailers, including Amazon’s new requirements for dietary supplements.
Leveraging Certification for Brand Growth: Use your certification to enhance your brand’s reputation. Highlight your compliance in marketing materials, attend trade shows, and confidently approach new retail partners with your certification as a key differentiator.
Implementing the SQF Dietary Supplements Code
Achieving SQF certification for dietary supplements can transform your business by enhancing safety, building trust, and expanding market opportunities. Whether new to compliance or looking to elevate your existing systems, the SQF Dietary Supplements Code is an invaluable resource.
Decoding Dietary Supplements: Using SQF’s Code as a Fast-track to Mainstream Retail
This digital seminar with ASI Food Safety dissects the SQF Code for dietary supplements, explaining how SQF certification can help producers exceed the expectations of major retailers and meet Amazon’s new requirements. You’ll also learn the differences between the SQF Code, CFR 111, and GMP audits—and why an accredited audit might be preferable to an unaccredited one for dietary supplements.
Watch today to take your supplements to the next level of safety and retail success!
