3 replies to this topic

[ChelseaC]

We are looking to change from FSSC to SQF. We are a food manufacturing company that makes flours etc from grains. There is no additives etc added into products. Purely just a grain produced into flour. 

 

We feel that the FSSC has so much involved in it that we are constantly creating documents rather than being able to spend time on the factory floor. 

 

My question is, has anyone changed from FSSC to SQF as it the program easier or not as complicated the need for endless documents?

[liberator]

Unfortunately, all the GFSI programs will require documentation, and in the majority they all require the same things such as overarching quality requirements, procedures, all documentation relating to record keeping for your manufacturing process. It's something that you can't get away from, it's about records and having proof/evidence of you doing what you say.

 

You say "we are constantly creating documents" you have to ask why, are they necessary, being created just for the sake of creating, to fix a non-conformance, to record stuff you may not need to record?

 

Just go to the SQF site, you'll fall under the following:

 

FSC 22 - Processing of Grains and Flours: SQFI | SQFI Code Selector

 

Part A: Implementing and Maintaining the SQF Food Safety Code

 

Module 2: System Elements

 

Module 11: Good Manufacturing Practices for Processing of Food Products

 

 

As you have FSSC, you'll should have the bones and muscle in place, if not more, of the requirements for SQF. You'll just need to review and do a gap analysis to see what's missing. But you won't be able to completely get away from not having records and procedures etc, but you can be smarter about it.

[MDDF]

I'm about 90% through my switch from FSSC to SQF.   It's different, but not that different.   Some of my programs/paperwork needed little change (mostly just adjustments), while other things were no longer needed at all, and a few needed to be done for the first time.  

Overall so far, I do feel that SQF is less complicated, but not hugely so.    One of the biggest issues I had with FSSC wasn't even FSSC itself but our auditing body, NSF, and they're absolute garbage if you ask me.   If auditing is the joke, NSF is the punchline.   I won't do business with them again, ever.

But I doubt a switch from FSSC to SQF will cure your issue.   The schemes all require a good deal of documentation.  

Why are you constantly creating documents?    Do you have an MRP?   

[Tony-C]

Hi ChelseaC,

 

You will find SQF more straightforward, the SQF Code is easier to understand than ISO 22000 and more focussed on food safety.

 

The main differences are less Organizational Analysis and a less complicated HACCP System.

 

Kind regards,

 

Tony