IFS Food and BRCGS Food Safety Issue 9 are both widely accepted by retailers and buyers across Europe and globally. Both assess food safety management systems against structured requirements. Both result in a certificate that supports market access.
The differences lie in structure, emphasis, and how each standard approaches specific areas of risk. For some businesses, both are required simultaneously by different customers. Understanding what each standard covers and how it is applied helps businesses make informed decisions about their certification pathway.
The choice between them is not always obvious. What is consistent is that the standard chosen shapes the basis on which compliance is assessed.
What comes in the way of informed standard selection
- Limited internal understanding of why a specific standard was chosen
- Companies holding both certificates with insufficient understanding of the differences
- Differences in grading, scoring, and non-conformity classification not fully understood
- Variability in how companies prepare for audits under each standard
- Awareness of standard requirements that remains at clause level rather than system level
Audit-focused insights
From an audit perspective, the standard determines the scope and structure of assessment. Auditors typically consider:
- The degree to which requirements are understood, not only documented
- Consistency between the chosen standard’s expectations and the system in place
- Ability to explain the reasoning behind control decisions within the relevant framework
- Evidence that internal reviews reflect the specific requirements of the applicable standard
- Awareness of scheme updates and their practical implications
Certification is a means of demonstrating compliance. The standard chosen shapes what that demonstration requires.
Certima’s Mission
As an impartial certification body, Certima assesses compliance with international food safety measures. Certification enables businesses to demonstrate that they meet regulatory and client requirements for food safety and quality through rigorous compliance.
While Certima does not provide operational guidance, audits serve as a valuable tool for businesses to strengthen transparency and trust in the delivery of safe food products, while evaluating their fraud prevention strategies and supply chain integrity.