With growing supply chain complexity and evolving regulatory requirements, building an effective approved supplier program is more critical than ever. In the digital seminar, What Good Looks Like: Approved Supplier Programs and FSVP, Jennifer Lott from SGS and LeAnn Chuboff from SQFI explore how companies can design risk-based supplier programs that align with SQF certification and the FDA’s Foreign Supplier Verification Program (FSVP).
Presented by SGS and SQFI, leaders in food safety and certification, this session highlights how integrating SQF and FSVP requirements helps organizations move beyond compliance to reduce risk, streamline audits, and strengthen overall supply chain integrity.
Why Approved Supplier Programs Matter Now
Approved Supplier Programs are evolving from industry best practices to essential components of food safety and regulatory compliance. With FSMA FSVP regulations holding importers accountable for the safety of foreign-sourced products, organizations cannot rely on fragmented or inconsistent supplier oversight. Poorly executed supplier programs increase risk, audit findings, and the potential for recalls, whereas a structured, risk-based approach drives efficiency, transparency, and accountability across the supply chain.
Beyond regulatory compliance, top food manufacturers and retailers are investing in robust supplier programs because these initiatives improve supplier performance, reduce non-conformances, and enhance brand reputation.
Key Topics Covered
Integrating SQF and FSVP Requirements
This digital seminar explores how to build an audit-ready, risk-based supplier program that satisfies both SQF and FSVP requirements. Key strategies include categorizing suppliers based on risk, establishing clear and achievable specifications, and maintaining thorough, well-organized documentation.
Risk-Based Supplier Verification
Participants learn how to tailor verification activities to each supplier’s risk level - whether through annual on-site audits, recognition of GFSI certifications, or targeted testing programs for high-risk ingredients. Jennifer and LeAnn emphasize the importance of ongoing monitoring, scorecards, and digital tools to track supplier performance and certificates effectively.
Common Pitfalls to Avoid
The session identifies frequent errors in supplier programs, such as siloed processes, expired certificates, incomplete hazard analyses, and insufficient follow-up on corrective actions. Avoiding these pitfalls ensures compliance, reduces audit risk, and strengthens food safety systems.
Real-World Examples of Success
Companies implementing integrated programs that align SQF and FSVP requirements report measurable improvements, including reductions in non-conformances, faster audit preparation, and enhanced supplier accountability. Digital tracking systems are highlighted as particularly effective tools for improving efficiency and maintaining compliance.
Key Takeaways
Effective approved supplier programs are a strategic asset that:
By taking a structured, integrated approach, organizations can protect their brand, reduce supply chain risks, and ensure food safety from supplier to consumer.
For more information on approved supplier programs and FSVP compliance, explore these resources:
