Insights provided by Eurofins
Labeling food correctly and in accordance with national regulations is essential in order to meet SQF Edition 9 requirements. A failure to meet mandatory requirements can have serious consequences, including non-conformances, certificate suspension or withdrawal as well as withdrawal of products from sale.
1. Formal Label Verification Reports
• Records of label compliance for all new and existing products shall be maintained.
o Formal Label Verification Reports offer a comprehensive review and record of label compliance.
2. Global Label Review Compliance Centers
• Product Labels shall comply with the food legislation that applies in the country of manufacture and the country(ies) of use or sale if known.
o A global Food Safety Labeling Service allows access to the expertise of a global network of food safety consultants who can review labels to meet access requirements in destination markets.
3. Accuracy of Finished Product Labels
• The site shall document and implement methods to control the accuracy of finished product labels and assure work-in-progress and finished products are true to label with regard to allergens.
o Food Safety Labeling Service experts can review labels and advise on everything from design to allergen declarations.
4. Insurance from vulnerability to food fraud due to mislabeling.
• The methods, responsibility and criteria for identifying the site’s vulnerability to food fraud including mislabeling shall be documented, implemented, and maintained.
o Food Safety Labeling Service experts can identify and correct mislabeling in Allergen Statements, Label Translation, Nutrition and Health Claims, Specifications, Principal Display Panel and Special Claims.
Qiang Zheng is the food safety and quality assurance manager at Melville Candy Company. He was an early adopter of the Certified SQF Practitioner credential when it launched late in 2024.
In mid to late August 2025, the food safety world will reach a major milestone with the release of SQF Edition 10, a comprehensive update designed to elevate food safety practices across the industry.
SQF Code Edition 10 represents a critical step forward in ensuring rigorous yet practical food safety management across the supply chain.