Why SQF Certification Matters 

The Safe Quality Food (SQF) Program is more than just a stamp of approval—it’s a globally recognized benchmark for food safety and quality management. SQF certification is trusted by major retailers and supply chain partners worldwide and is often a gateway to expanded market access. 

For facilities looking to implement a food safety culture that goes beyond compliance, the SQF certification process offers structure, accountability, and continual improvement. But navigating this journey requires a clear understanding of the steps involved. 

Overview of the SQF Certification Process 

Achieving SQF certification typically unfolds in several phases. While each facility’s journey may differ slightly based on industry sector and readiness, the core process includes key steps that establish the foundation for long-term food safety performance. 

1. Determine Applicable SQF Code

The SQF Program includes different codes (e.g., Food Safety Code, Quality Code, Fundamentals) depending on the operation’s size, complexity, and product category. Choosing the correct code ensures that your SQF system is scoped appropriately and aligned with the specific requirements for your sector. Misalignment here can delay your audit readiness, so this step should be tackled with care. 

2. Register in the SQF Database

Facilities must register with SQFI (Safe Quality Food Institute) via its online portal. Registration includes selecting the certification level and the applicable Food Sector Category (FSC). It is required annually and allows your facility to be visible to Certification Bodies and potential supply chain partners. 

3. Select and Contract with a Certification Body (CB)

Certification bodies are licensed to audit against the SQF Code. Once you’ve registered, you must choose a CB and sign a service agreement. The CB will assign a qualified SQF auditor, who will be responsible for evaluating your facility during the audit phase. 

4. Develop and Implement Your SQF System

This is where the real work begins. Facilities must build and implement documented food safety and (if applicable) quality systems that reflect the chosen SQF Code. This includes: 

• Creating a HACCP-based food safety plan 

• Developing prerequisite programs (e.g., sanitation, training, pest control) 

• Defining monitoring and verification procedures 

• Establishing corrective action protocols and validation methods 

• Building a food safety culture and more 

These practices should be fully operational and integrated into the daily workflow—not just prepared for the auditor. 

5. Optional: Conduct a Gap Assessment

While not required, many facilities choose to conduct a gap assessment—a pre-audit review of systems and documentation to identify potential deficiencies. This step provides critical insight into areas that need improvement before the formal audit and often increases the chances of a successful outcome. We’ll cover this in detail in an upcoming article. 

6. Schedule and Undergo the Certification Audit

Once your system is in place, your Certification Body will schedule the on-site audit. This includes a desk review of documentation and a physical inspection of operations. The auditor will assess your system’s compliance with the SQF Code and evaluate implementation, employee awareness, recordkeeping, and more. 

7. Address Non-Conformities

If the audit identifies non-conformities, the facility must submit corrective actions within a specified timeframe (typically 30 days). These corrective actions must be approved by the auditor before certification can be granted. 

8. Certification Issuance and Surveillance

After your corrective actions are accepted, your Certification Body will issue your SQF certificate. This certification is valid for one year and is maintained through annual surveillance audits. Your team must keep the system up-to-date and fully operational year-round—not just before audit time. 

How Registrar Corp Supports Your Certification Journey 

Achieving SQF certification isn’t just about passing an audit—it’s about building a resilient, compliant, and efficient operation. Registrar Corp supports: 

• Facility registration and scope identification 

• SQF system development and document review 

• Internal audit planning and mock audits 

• Online Training programs for employees and leadership 

• Procedure templates to help you get started with your documentation 

• Communication with your Certification Body to streamline timelines and expectations 

Whether you’re starting from scratch or refining your system for recertification, our team ensures you’re audit-ready, confident, and aligned with best practices. 

Final Takeaway: A Structured Path to Market Confidence 

The SQF certification process provides a roadmap to not just food safety compliance, but industry leadership. By approaching each step with clarity and purpose—and with the right support—facilities gain more than a certificate. They build trust with buyers, improve operational consistency, and create a culture of continuous improvement.