The SQF program is a fully integrated food safety and quality management protocol designed specifically for the food industry. It includes a safety standard, training and independent auditing and certification that enable a supplier to verify food has been produced, processed, prepared and handled in accordance with global standards. Internationally recognized and endorsed by the Global Food Safety Initiative, the program is based on the principles of HACCP, Codex, and ISO Quality Management Standards. It is administered by the SQF Institute, a division of FMI.
Mexican retailers, suppliers and representatives from the Ministry of Agriculture and Ministry of Health gathered in Mexico City to offer their support to SQF. “Those Mexican suppliers who demonstrate they can comply with one of the world’s most rigorous food safety and quality management standards will qualify for SQF certification,” said FMI President and CEO Tim Hammonds.
“We are very pleased that the Mexican food industry recognizes the benefits of integrating SQF certification into its food safety and quality control program,” said SQF Executive Director Paul Ryan. “At a time when food safety is a top-of-mind issue, the decision to endorse the SQF program will build consumer confidence in Mexican products.”
FMI has selected Luis Alberto Cruz, director general of AVQ Consultoría Integral, S.C., to serve as the SQF Regional Representative in Mexico. Based in SQF’s Mexico City office, Mr. Cruz will coordinate SQF activities throughout Mexico and Central America.
Mr. Ryan and Dr. Hammonds traveled to Mexico last week to meet with Mexican food industry officials and introduce the program to government agencies associated with food safety oversight. The visit included education sessions attended by over 100 industry professionals representing retailers, producers, manufacturers, exporters, trade associations and state governments from throughout Mexico.
For more information, visit the SQF Institute Web site at http://sqfi.com/.
Food Marketing Institute (FMI) conducts programs in public affairs, food safety, research, education and industry relations on behalf of its nearly 1,250 food retail and wholesale member companies in the United States and around the world. FMI’s U.S. members operate more than 25,000 retail food stores and almost 22,000 pharmacies with a combined annual sales volume of nearly $650 billion. FMI’s retail membership is composed of large multi-store chains, regional firms and independent operators. Its international membership includes 126 companies from more than 65 countries. FMI’s nearly 330 associate members include the supplier partners of its retail and wholesale members.
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