Keeping Current on Legislation
Hi
I'm going through my SOPs for annual review (hooray), and I'm trying to add SQF specific language where it does not currently exist. My documents are all set up to FSSC and I want to make the transition as painless as possible (by talking my president into going with FSSC instead of SQF..I don't think I'm gonna win that one though).
I have a document called "Reporting Requirements" that lists out the stuff I have to communicate to senior management and various ways I'm updated on current legislation, industry news, etc (this site too!). Does anyone know if there's a requirement for this in SQF? I couldn't find a specific clause like in FSSC
Yes there is a requirement in SQF for this - and I also reference this site!
Magenta,
My last SQF auditor asked me the question of how we are updated on legislation and best practices etc...
Here's what I said "My company has a system in place through, but is not limited to: SQFI, IFSQN, FDA, State and Local Authorities, AIB, Micro Lab, Food Safety Tech Newsletter, Safefood360, and on-going Food Safety Training, to ensure that it is kept informed of all relevant legislation, food safety issues, legislative scientific and technical developments and Industry Codes of Practice applicable in the United States of America and, the country where the product will be sold if outside the United States of America. This information is used for reference and Hazard Analysis. Maintenance of these files is the responsibility of the Quality Assurance Manager who is responsible for circulating updates to relevant sections of the business. To ensure legal compliance, authority and guidance for use of new labels is required from the Quality Assurance Manager prior to first production.
Now I know that's a mouth full but it covers all the bases and the auditor was satisfied.
Phil
Hi
I'm going through my SOPs for annual review (hooray), and I'm trying to add SQF specific language where it does not currently exist. My documents are all set up to FSSC and I want to make the transition as painless as possible (by talking my president into going with FSSC instead of SQF..I don't think I'm gonna win that one though).
I have a document called "Reporting Requirements" that lists out the stuff I have to communicate to senior management and various ways I'm updated on current legislation, industry news, etc (this site too!). Does anyone know if there's a requirement for this in SQF? I couldn't find a specific clause like in FSSC
Here it is Magenta - 2.4.1.2 The methods and responsibility for ensuring the organization is kept informed of changes to relevant legislation, scientific and technical developments and relevant industry codes of practice shall be documented and implemented.
What does it mean?
Food legislation (regulations) always applies and underpins the SQF Code. Suppliers MUST meet all applicable food regulations in the country, state, or region that the product is processed (i.e., where the supplier’s facility is located) and the country in which the product will be sold, if it is known. In some cases, export destinations may not be known. However, if a product is intended for, labeled for, or known to be distributed to another legal jurisdiction, then the destination legislation must be known and applied.
If there is disagreement between food legislation and the SQF Code, the food legislation always takes precedent. This may include (but is not limited to) applicable maximum residue limits, trade weights and measures, permitted pathogen levels, product description, country-of-origin, nutritional and allergen labeling, etc.
What do I have to do?
This element is mandatory. The supplier is required to know and keep up-to-date with all applicable legislation. A larger supplier may employ a regulatory affairs person with that responsibility. For a smaller supplier, this may be achieved through web updates or communications from trade organizations, consultants or retail customers. A procedure must be developed to demonstrate how the supplier is informed of applicable legislation and changes to legislation. The procedure must include information about scientific or technical developments within the specific industry sector and applicable industry codes of practice.
Ah! That was the number I was missing. Looking over it, my SOP will remain exactly the same, but now I *know* it meets SQF code too. Thanks!