BRC Global Standards

The BRCGS Global Standards are published by the BRCGS (formerly the British Retail Consortium) and represent fundamental, globally recognized standards that define management system requirements for product safety and quality. These include:

1. BRCGS Global Standard for Food Safety (covering food production)
2. BRCGS Global Standard for Storage and Distribution (covering goods during storage and transportation)
3. BRCGS Global Standard for Packaging Materials (covering packaging and packaging materials, especially those intended for food)

The BRCGS Global Standard for Food Safety was the first to be recognized by the GFSI (Global Food Safety Initiative) and is based on the principles of HACCP, emphasizing Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP) and Good Hygiene Practices (GHP).

The BRCGS Global Standards apply to a wide range of sectors and are intended for different types of businesses, such as:

• BRCGS for Food Safety: Businesses involved in the production, processing, or packaging of food.
• BRCGS for Packaging Materials: Manufacturers of packaging materials used in food and other products.
• BRCGS for Storage and Distribution: Companies involved in storing and distributing products.
• BRCGS for Consumer Products: Manufacturers of consumer products such as electrical devices, furniture, and toys.
• BRCGS for Agents and Brokers: Businesses operating as intermediaries or representatives along the supply chain.
• BRCGS for Retail: Retailers seeking to ensure the quality and safety of their products.
• BRCGS for Ethical Trading and Responsible Sourcing: Companies aiming to ensure ethical practices and responsible sourcing in their supply chain.
• BRCGS for Gluten-Free Certification: Businesses producing gluten-free products and seeking certification to prove it.
• BRCGS for Plant-Based Certification: Businesses producing plant-based products wishing to obtain certification.

Implementing a BRCGS standard typically involves these steps:

1. Assessing the current situation: Identifying gaps in facilities and production processes compared to the standard’s requirements.
2. Carrying out corrective actions: Resolving identified nonconformities.
3. Developing and documenting the system: Including HACCP, where applicable.
4. Staff training: Ensuring employees are suitably trained in the standard’s requirements.
5. Validation and system implementation: Confirming the system’s effectiveness.
6. Reviewing and modifying the system: As necessary.
7. Conducting internal audits: Preparing for the official certification audit.

Like most food safety management systems, BRCGS standards can be implemented independently or integrated into other existing company management systems.

BRCGS Global Standards are considered among the more demanding frameworks for product safety and quality management. Working with a specialized consultant is typically necessary. A functional system tailored to a company’s needs will facilitate easy implementation.

Several certification bodies in Greece are approved by BRCGS to carry out relevant audits and issue corresponding certificates.

The certification process involves assessing the company’s compliance with legal requirements for product safety, checking facilities, evaluating the food safety management system, and verifying system implementation.

The degree of compliance determines the company’s score and can result in a certificate valid for 6 or 12 months, or may require re-evaluation if nonconformities are significant.

BRCGS Global Standards address safety, legality, and quality, providing companies a way to assess their compliance level. Companies holding BRCGS certificates can demonstrate (to themselves and their customers) their compliance with the standard through a grading system. BRCGS standards are important tools for businesses exporting products or aiming for more demanding markets.