If you’re in the food industry, you’ve likely heard the term “SQF” tossed around.
But what is it exactly, and why should your business care?
The Safe Quality Food (SQF) Program is a rigorous and credible food safety and quality certification system recognised by the Global Food Safety Initiative (GFSI).
It’s designed to provide verifiable assurance that food products have been produced, processed, and handled according to the highest standards.
Originally developed out here in Australia, SQF has become a globally recognised benchmark for food safety and quality.
At its core, SQF helps food businesses ensure their products are safe and meet customer and regulatory requirements.
It applies to every segment of the food supply chain, from farm to fork.
This includes primary production, manufacturing, packaging, storage, and distribution.
It offers sector-specific guidance, making it practical and applicable regardless of your role in the supply chain.
Why is SQF important?
In today’s marketplace, major retailers, foodservice providers, and global buyers increasingly demand GFSI-recognised certifications as a prerequisite for doing business.
Achieving SQF certification demonstrates a serious commitment to food safety, positioning your business as trustworthy, reliable, and prepared to meet the highest standards.
Beyond compliance, SQF helps reduce the risk of costly recalls and food safety incidents.
With its focus on prevention, continuous improvement, and rigorous documentation, the SQF program equips businesses to identify and manage potential hazards before they become problems.
Additionally, certification can streamline operations by standardising procedures and training.
This leads to improved efficiency, consistency, and product quality across the board.
It also boosts team morale by creating a culture of safety and accountability where everyone knows their role in maintaining food safety.
Finally, having SQF certification can serve as a valuable marketing tool.
Consumers, distributors, and partners increasingly look for assurance that the food products they purchase are safe and of high quality.
Displaying the SQF logo on packaging and promotional materials signals that your company meets globally recognized standards.
In short, SQF isn’t just another regulatory hurdle—it’s a strategic asset.
Whether you’re a small manufacturer or a large processor, embracing SQF can elevate your operations, protect your brand, and open the door to bigger and better business opportunities.
In an industry where reputation is everything, SQF is a step toward long-term success and sustainability.
Photo by Anna Shvets