The BRCGS Storage & Distribution Standard was created by BRCGS – a leading global brand and consumer protection organisation. First published in 2006, it meets GFSI standards.
This standard was developed to extend food safety management across international supply chains. It addresses the need for strong controls in handling and moving food products, helping ensure product safety and quality during storage and distribution.
The BRCGS Storage & Distribution standard works with existing Food Safety Management Systems. It provides a structured approach for managing product integrity across various industries and sectors involved in storage and distribution. This supports compliance with global safety and quality regulations.
The BRCGS Storage & Distribution certification has a number of requirements to help guide your business in conducting safe and compliant food product storage and distribution:
Having a strong Food Safety Management System, like HACCP, helps in getting the BRCGS storage and distribution certification.
Achieving certification typically involves the following steps:
The BRCGS Storage & Distribution standard works alongside other Food Safety Management Systems like HACCP to offer a complete guide for safety and quality.
This integration aims to boost overall supply chain safety by maintaining food safety and quality during storage and distribution.
Aligning with these standards helps businesses create a unified method for managing food safety risks, ensuring all critical control points are monitored and best practices are consistently used throughout the supply chain.
This integration not only makes compliance easier but also improves the effectiveness of existing food safety procedures.
The BRCGS Storage & Distribution standard covers a wide range of storage and distribution activities, including warehousing, transport and third-party logistics for both food and non-food products.
It applies to various storage environments, such as ambient, chilled and frozen, keeping products under suitable conditions to maintain their safety and quality.
The standard also addresses wholesaling, repacking and other distribution activities, providing a comprehensive approach to managing risks associated with the handling and movement of goods.
This inclusivity covers all aspects of storage and distribution, providing businesses with a robust framework to maintain product integrity throughout the supply chain.
Implementing the BRCGS Storage & Distribution standard offers numerous benefits, including enhanced operational efficiency, improved risk management and increased consumer trust.
By adhering to this standard, businesses can demonstrate their commitment to safety and quality, which can help differentiate them in a competitive market.
The standard also provides a framework for continual improvement, enabling companies to identify and mitigate risks more effectively, reducing the likelihood of product recalls and other costly disruptions.
BRCGS certification is not mandatory but can be useful for businesses looking to enhance their credibility and meet industry standards.
Certification can provide a competitive edge by demonstrating a commitment to food safety and quality. Many retailers and distributors prefer or require their suppliers to be BRCGS certified as it provides assurance that products are handled and stored according to internationally recognised standards.
The duration of a BRCGS audit can vary depending on several factors, including the size and complexity of the operation, the scope of the audit, and the level of preparedness of the organisation.
Typically, an audit can take anywhere from one to several days. Smaller operations might require a single day, whereas larger, more complex facilities could need multiple days to thoroughly assess all aspects of the storage and distribution processes.
The audit includes reviewing documentation, observing processes, and interviewing staff to verify compliance with the standard. Proper preparation can help streamline the audit process, potentially reducing the time required.
