I am in the very early stages of implementing SQF. I am currently working on revising the documentation to comply with the SQF code. We have a pre-requisite program, HACCP plan + countless policies and procedures, work instructions & records already developed and implemented.
So, my question is how do I best organize/consolidate all of these documents to set myself up for the most success?
For example, one clause of the code I’m most confused about in regards to organizing documentation is the
2.2.1.1 Food Safety Management System
i. A summary of the organization’s food safety policies and the methods it will apply to meet the requirements of this standard; What specifically would this “summary” include?
ii. The food safety policy statement and organization chart;
iii. The processes and products included in the scope of certification; would a statement such as “The scope of certification covers all food safety management activities that are under the control of [Company Name]” suffice?
iv. Food Safety regulations that apply to the manufacturing site and the countries of sale; Lost on what is required here… there are so many regulations that we adhere to?
v. Raw material, ingredient, packaging, and finished product specifications;
vi. Food Safety Procedures, pre-req program, food safety plans;
vii. Process controls that impact product safety;
viii. Other documentation necessary to support the development, implantation, maintenance and control of the SQF system
These bullets cover a lot so I’m struggling to understand if they all belong in one document (i.e a food safety manual) or if they just need to be covered somewhere within in all the documentation.
Any advice on how to best get organized with the goal of keeping the documentation as simple and concise as possible?
Please note: we will be using an SQF consultant later in the process, but the expectation from my employer is that I update all the documents to comply with the code first.
