5 replies to this topic

[Inland SCM]

Hello

 

I am looking for some help from fellow label companies on section 2.5.4.2. We are currently working towards our SQF compliance and I am wondering what proficiency testing others are doing and at what frequency?

 

Appreciate the help!

 

[Scampi]

if you're only doing on site enviro swabs, yearly do an onsite with whomever is doing the swabbing to ensure that the SOP is being followed including how the samples are handled post swab.

 

We do pH on finished goods so same goes, once a year I will do an onsite to ensure it is still being performed (and recorded) correctly

 

You're frequency will depend on the size and nature of your facility!

[MsMars]

Do you perform any of your environmental testing on-site (i.e. do you do your own plating/enumeration, etc.) or do you send all samples to an outside lab? If you're sending samples out, it does not apply to you.

[Charles.C]

Hi ISCM,

 

2.5.4.2     On-site personnel that conduct testing of finished product shall participate in an applicable proficiency testing program at least annually to ensure accuracy of results.

 

JFI From Food Guidance-
 

 

It is not necessary for the internal laboratory to be accredited to ISO 17025 or equivalent; this is required in the Code for only external laboratories (refer 2.5.6.1.iv); however the testing methods used must be justified, and proficiency against an accredited laboratory is recommended to validate the testing methods.

(, comma added)

 

As suggested in previous posts of this thread  a meaningful answer may depend on the OP's product/process.

 

I note that the Packaging Code only specifically defines the personnel, the word "applicable" is a highly subjective term.

[FurFarmandFork]

Numerous previous posts likely contain the information you're looking for:

 

http://www.ifsqn.com...ing#entry119863

 

http://www.ifsqn.com...-sqf-ed-8-2542/

 

http://www.ifsqn.com...ciency-testing/

[Hoosiersmoker]

Do the labels come in contact with food? If not, your procedures for inspections should be all the verification you need. Also, 2.5.4 is not a Mandatory element so, we have always demonstrated that our procedure and documentation is sufficient and acceptable.

 

Excerpt from our 11/2017 audit: "There are in place methods, responsibility and criteria for inspecting and analyzing raw materials and finished product. Each method is part of the SOP for each processing area, along with the responsibility in those areas. Through a review of records from randomly selected dates (see 2.2.2) and audit observations, there was evidence that records of folding carton evaluations are maintained."