IFS - International Featured Standards

IFS Global Standards (International Featured Standards) are a set of internationally recognized standards designed to ensure the quality, safety, and legality of products in various supply chain sectors. Established in 2003 by the German and French Retail Federations, they have evolved into a comprehensive management system covering both the food and non-food industries.

The IFS standards are based on:

• HACCP (Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Points)
• Good Manufacturing Practice (GMP)
• Good Hygiene Practice (GHP)
• Risk assessment and continuous process improvement

IFS standards are recognized by the GFSI (Global Food Safety Initiative), making them equivalent to other international frameworks such as BRCGS, FSSC 22000, and the SQF Code.

IFS Global Standards cover various areas of the supply chain, targeting:

• Food manufacturers and processors
• Packaging suppliers
• Logistics and transport companies
• Wholesale and distribution enterprises
• Consumer products manufacturers
• Importers, brokers, and agents of food and consumer goods

The main IFS standards include:

1. IFS Food: For companies producing or processing food (private-label or otherwise).
2. IFS Logistics: For companies involved in transportation, storage, and distribution of products, whether food or non-food.
3. IFS Broker: For businesses acting as intermediaries between suppliers and customers, without direct contact with the product.
4. IFS Cash & Carry / Wholesale: For wholesale and cash-and-carry enterprises handling both packaged and unpackaged products.
5. IFS HPC (Household and Personal Care): For companies producing household and personal care products (cosmetics, hygiene items, cleaning supplies, etc.).
6. IFS PACsecure: For manufacturers of packaging materials intended for food and other products.

Implementing and certifying an IFS standard generally involves:

1. Assessment and preparation: Analyzing current conditions and identifying potential nonconformities against the standard’s requirements.
2. Developing and implementing a management system: This includes documentation of policies, procedures, and work instructions.
3. Staff training: Training employees on the standard’s principles and HACCP requirements.
4. Conducting internal audits: Internal checks to assess system application and prepare for the official audit.
5. Choosing an accredited certification body: Selecting a recognized body to perform the external audit.
6. Audit and grading: The company’s compliance is evaluated, and a corresponding score is assigned.
7. Issuing the certificate: Upon meeting the standard’s requirements, a certificate valid for 12 months is issued.

The difficulty of implementing IFS standards depends on the company’s existing compliance level and size. Businesses already operating quality management systems (e.g., ISO 22000 or HACCP) have a significant advantage. Others may require major structural and procedural changes. Collaboration with specialized consultants is often essential for proper preparation and successful certification.

Several certification bodies in Greece are approved by IFS to conduct relevant audits and issue certificates.
The certification process includes:

• Checking company compliance with legal requirements for product safety
• Inspecting infrastructure
• Reviewing the safety and quality management system and verifying practical implementation

The company’s compliance level is reflected in a score. A certificate may be issued if minimum requirements are met, and could be designated IFS foundation or higher level depending on the firm’s score. IFS certificates are typically valid for 12 months.

IFS Food Standard covers safety, legality, and quality issues, providing a way for organizations to assess their compliance level. Companies with IFS certification can show compliance through a scoring system, both internally and to customers. The IFS audit system allows businesses with minor deviations to remedy them before the next audit. Thus, companies have valuable time to develop effective solutions. IFS certification is particularly beneficial for companies exporting or targeting more demanding markets.