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.
Edited by RG3, 15 January 2015 - 08:01 PM.