Much of a meat processor’s day can be taken up by paperwork — too much paperwork, on some days. It seems counterintuitive that increasing the amount of documentation could improve the business, but that could be the case. Taking on a third-party certification not only could lead to more efficient operations, but it also could open the door to new customers.
Retail chains, including Walmart, Kroger and Publix, are requiring their food suppliers to have GFSI certification. GFSI, or Global Food Safety Initiative, has several types of certifications. Most common in the United States are BRC (British Retail Consortium) and SQF (Safe Quality Food), says Bobby Pace of RDP Consulting. Companies that operate under FSIS inspection (or FDA inspection for non-meat items) were still having recalls, which is disruptive and costly to a retailer. These certifications are designed to help curb those recalls.