3 replies to this topic

[FlotoYo]

Hello, we are trying to get our SQF certification and wanted to see if anyone could recommend a great auditing company that services Northern California? In asking questions I've learned that some companies are more helpful than others, some more strict than others, etc.

 

I was hoping to find a company that's highly recommended. I'm not necessarily trying to go with someone "easy", I want to do this the right way! But I would like a company that offers better advice, and a more logical audit rather than a bureaucratic audit. We had a pre-assessment recently where the auditor gave us the wrong modules to prepare for, and then offered no help in determining how to fix our SOPS to match his requirements. He hasn't answered any of our emails asking questions either, even though the company promised to be a resource as we muddle through our first program launch.

 

Any recommendations would be wonderful, thanks!

[Farm Mom]

Apple Leaf 845-853-3020

 

We use them for all of our audits; SQF, Primus GFS, Global Gap and Salmon Safe!

 

Excellent team to work with! and flexible.

[FurFarmandFork]

Apple Leaf 845-853-3020

 

We use them for all of our audits; SQF, Primus GFS, Global Gap and Salmon Safe!

 

Excellent team to work with! and flexible.

 

 

...Not sure if that's a specific consultant that is certified under a different CB? They aren't listed in SQF's approved CB database...

 

Auditors vary across the board. Generally your experience changes auditor-by-auditor just as much as changing CB's. The only specific difference is that if a CB also has it's OWN "food safety audit" scheme that isn't GFSI, you often end up getting audited against those specifics by auditors rather than simply the SQF code (your job to know the code and push back).

 

NSF is extremely popular in the US and can cover a lot of your needs for other schemes as well.

[sqflady]

We have used NSF for several years (including going through two desk audits and using a consultant).  All of them were very helpful and willing to answer questions in person and by e-mail.