The SQF Quality Code

Benefits

Certification to the SQF Quality Code delivers measurable value across quality performance and operational excellence.

Earn your Quality certification to:

Enhance customer confidence through demonstrated quality management.
Reduce product defects and variability in processes.
Strengthen continuous improvement and corrective action capability.
Align with global buyer expectations for consistent product quality.
Integrate quality and safety systems for streamlined compliance.

Eligibility

Companies eligible for SQF Quality certification must already be certified to an applicable SQF Food Safety Code or another recognized food safety management system (e.g., ISO 22000/HACCP). The Quality Code can also be applied as a food quality certification for manufacturing or storage sites certified to GFSI-recognized systems.

Costs

Certification costs vary by site size, scope, and audit complexity, but typically include:

$250 per site via your certification body’s audit process
SQF-certified sites adding quality certification pay $150

Certification Process

SQF recommends a minimum of three months of documentation to demonstrate implementation. Please contact your Certification Body for specific timing.

Selecting and Customizing Your SQF Quality Code

Use the SQF Code Selector to ensure your site applies the right food safety requirements:

Identify your operation: Define your products, processes, and systems.
Determine certification scope: Specify the products and processes included.
Apply relevant Quality Code elements: Implement Part B requirements, including documentation and procedures.
Prepare for certification using the selected Code.

Steps to Certification

1. Learn about the SQF Quality Code.

2. Register for SQF Quality Certification.

3. Prepare for your audit:

Conduct a GAP assessment and define an implementation plan.
Implement your Quality System, including documentation and records.
Verify readiness through internal audits and staff training.

4. Schedule and undergo the audit.

5. Address nonconformities and complete audit closeout.

6. Receive your SQF Quality certificate and maintain it through surveillance and recertification audits.

Training

To achieve and sustain SQF Quality certification, your team must be trained to consistently apply a robust quality management system, maintain strong documentation practices, and execute procedures that stand up to external audits. Training should focus on understanding the SQF Quality Code, implementing quality procedures on the floor, and demonstrating competency through records, internal audits, and corrective actions.

Recommended SQF Quality Systems Training

1. SQF Quality Systems Course ($700)
This course provides practical guidance on implementing and maintaining SQF Quality systems. Participants learn the SQF Quality Code methodology, internal auditing, corrective and preventive actions (CAPA), root cause analysis, risk assessment, approved supplier programs, and building a culture of quality to support continuous improvement and successful certification. A downloadable certificate is provided upon successful completion.

2. Auditing SQF Quality Systems Exam ($50)
This exam validates competency for professionals seeking SQF Quality auditor registration. It tests knowledge of the SQF Quality Code and auditing principles, ensuring participants can effectively evaluate quality management systems. The exam requires a passing score of 85%, allows up to three attempts, and must be completed within 14 days. A downloadable certificate is provided upon successful completion.

Access the full SQF Quality Code: SQF Quality Code