Certified SQF Practitioner Credential

Level Up Your Career!

Earning this credential demonstrates your proficiency in managing and improving SQF food safety systems and your dedication to continuous professional development. Companies employing Certified SQF Practitioners highlight their leadership in food safety and quality, setting themselves apart from the competition.

Benefits of the Certified SQF Practitioner Credential

For food safety professionals, this voluntary credential creates:

A Professional Career Path & Skill Recognition
Continuous Professional Improvement
Transferrable Skills Career
Competitive Advantage
Growth of SQF Program Knowledge

Code requirements for the SQF Practitioner remain part of the annual SQF certification audit and are not replaced by this credential.

Requirements for an SQF practitioner are described in the SQF Food Safety Code elements 2.1.1.4 and 2.1.1.5.
The Certified SQF Practitioner credential is not part of this Code requirement.

Contact Training Staff

Kristie Grzywinski

Technical Director, SQFI

Contact

How to Become a Certified SQF Practitioner

Requirements

Certified SQF Practitioner candidates must complete a HACCP course, have food safety management experience, and demonstrate knowledge of the SQF Code, such as

Implementing SQF Systems course

Implementing SQF Systems - Primary Production exam or Implementing SQF Systems - Manufacturing exam.

See the Criteria for Certified SQF Practitioner for complete registration requirements.

Steps

Review the Registration and Re-Registration Requirements in the Certified SQF Practitioner Professional Development Handbook.

Create a Personal Professional Development Plan (PDP) using page 3 of the Handbook and our planning tool.

Do a Self-Assessment and create a goal plan (Plan, Do, Check, Act).

Create Your Professional Development Activities Log.

Re-register every 3 years and demonstrate 45 hours of continuing professional development.

Pricing

$250 USD for combined Application Fee and Registration Fee (includes examination).

$175 USD for annual recertification after the initial year.

Once you are ready to apply, review the steps to register with Exemplar Global.

Apply Here

Certified SQF Practitioner Resources

Certified Practitioner Professional Development Handbook

Criteria for Certified SQF Professional Credential

Professional Development Activities Log (XLSX)

Professional Development Plan Tool (XSLX)

Certified SQF Practitioner Examinee Guide

Self-Assessment

SMART Goals Planning Tool

Collaboration with Exemplar Global

The development of the Certified SQF Practitioner credential was made possible through a robust collaboration between SQFI and Exemplar Global. For 15 years, SQFI and Exemplar Global have been strong partners, administering the SQF Food Safety Auditor program with and for SQFI.

Certified SQF Practitioner Exam Preparation

The Certified SQF Practitioner Examinee Guide and Certified SQF Practitioner Self-Assessment cover essential topics to prepare practitioners for certification. The exam is based on a job analysis specific to a practitioner.

Exam Sections

Part 1: Covers essential foundational knowledge like HACCP training, sanitation practices, and understanding food safety basics such as microbiological hazards, allergen control, and food safety regulations.

Part 2: Dives into food safety plans, where you'll show how well you know the Codex HACCP plan process. This includes identifying hazards, conducting risk assessments, and handling corrective actions when needed.

Part 3: Show how to manage the bigger picture of food safety, such as overseeing audits, closing gaps in food safety systems, and staying updated on industry trends. Strong communication and collaboration skills are essential, as is your ability to assess and manage risks.

Once you register with Exemplar Global, you'll receive a link to access the exam.

Industry Collaboration: Built By Industry Professionals

SQFI and Exemplar Global engaged the Industry Stakeholder Group to define the certification scope and pathways, and the Industry Subject Matter Expert group to determine the knowledge, skills, and abilities required for the credential. Certification bodies provided input on the certification structure and requirements, and public comments were sought from the food safety community. The following food industry professionals helped create the Certified SQF Practitioner credential.

Join Us in Elevating Food Safety

We invite all qualified practitioners to embark on this journey towards certification. Together, we can continue to ensure the safety and integrity of our food supply chain. The Certified SQF Practitioner credential is a testament to our commitment to excellence in food safety.

Let's unite to maintain the highest food safety and quality professional development. Fill out the form if you are interested in learning more about this credential.