SQF Food Manufacturing Audit Checklist

A comprehensive checklist for auditing food manufacturing facilities against SQF standards to ensure food safety and quality compliance.

by: audit-now

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About This Checklist

The SQF Food Manufacturing Audit Checklist is an essential tool for ensuring food safety and quality in manufacturing facilities. This comprehensive checklist helps auditors and food safety professionals systematically evaluate compliance with Safe Quality Food (SQF) standards, identifying potential hazards and verifying that proper food safety management systems are in place. By utilizing this checklist, manufacturers can improve their food safety practices, reduce risks, and maintain compliance with industry regulations, ultimately protecting consumers and enhancing their brand reputation.

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Industry

Food and Beverage

Standard

SQF - Safe Quality Food

Workspaces

Food Manufacturing Facility

Occupations

Food Safety Auditor

Quality Assurance Manager

Food Safety Manager

Compliance Officer

Production Manager

Quality Assurance Processes

Are quality control checks performed at each production batch?

What is the defect rate percentage for the last production run?

Min: 0

Target: 0-2%

Max: 2

When was the last quality assurance audit conducted?

What corrective actions have been taken for any identified quality issues?

Sanitation and Hygiene Practices

Are all employees following personal hygiene practices?

Personal Hygiene Compliance

How often are the production areas cleaned?

Min: 1

Target: Daily

Max: 7

Are sanitation procedures documented and accessible?

What training has been provided to staff regarding sanitation practices?

Supplier and Ingredient Management

Are all suppliers approved and qualified?

What methods are in place for tracking ingredient sources?

How often are supplier audits conducted?

Min: 1

Target: Annually

Max: 12

What safety certifications do the ingredients have?

Equipment and Maintenance Standards

Is the equipment maintenance schedule being followed?

What is the total downtime for equipment in the last month?

Min: 0

Target: 0-10 hours

Max: 10

Are emergency equipment checks conducted regularly?

Emergency Equipment Checks

What records are maintained for equipment calibration?

Identifiers

Auditor Name

Site/Location

Date

FAQs

The primary purpose is to assess compliance with Safe Quality Food (SQF) standards and ensure food safety practices are properly implemented in manufacturing facilities.

SQF audits are typically conducted annually, but the frequency may vary depending on the facility's certification level and performance history.

SQF audits are conducted by certified SQF auditors who are trained and licensed by SQFI (Safe Quality Food Institute).

The checklist covers various aspects of food safety and quality, including management commitment, food safety plans, good manufacturing practices, allergen management, and traceability systems.

Manufacturers can prepare by conducting internal audits, reviewing and updating documentation, training employees on SQF requirements, and addressing any non-conformances identified in previous audits.

Benefits of SQF Food Manufacturing Audit Checklist

Ensures compliance with SQF standards and food safety regulations

Identifies potential food safety hazards and areas for improvement

Streamlines the audit process and increases efficiency

Helps maintain consistent food quality and safety across manufacturing operations

Supports continuous improvement in food safety management systems

FAQs

The primary purpose is to assess compliance with Safe Quality Food (SQF) standards and ensure food safety practices are properly implemented in manufacturing facilities.

SQF audits are typically conducted annually, but the frequency may vary depending on the facility's certification level and performance history.

SQF audits are conducted by certified SQF auditors who are trained and licensed by SQFI (Safe Quality Food Institute).

The checklist covers various aspects of food safety and quality, including management commitment, food safety plans, good manufacturing practices, allergen management, and traceability systems.

Benefits of SQF Food Manufacturing Audit Checklist

Ensures compliance with SQF standards and food safety regulations

Identifies potential food safety hazards and areas for improvement

Streamlines the audit process and increases efficiency

Helps maintain consistent food quality and safety across manufacturing operations

Supports continuous improvement in food safety management systems

Quality Assurance Processes

Sanitation and Hygiene Practices

Supplier and Ingredient Management

Equipment and Maintenance Standards

Identifiers

FAQs

What is the primary purpose of the SQF Food Manufacturing Audit Checklist?

How often should an SQF audit be conducted?

Who is responsible for conducting SQF audits?

What areas does the SQF Food Manufacturing Audit Checklist cover?

How can manufacturers prepare for an SQF audit?

Benefits of SQF Food Manufacturing Audit Checklist

Quality Assurance Processes

Sanitation and Hygiene Practices

Supplier and Ingredient Management

Equipment and Maintenance Standards

Identifiers

FAQs

What is the primary purpose of the SQF Food Manufacturing Audit Checklist?

How often should an SQF audit be conducted?

Who is responsible for conducting SQF audits?

What areas does the SQF Food Manufacturing Audit Checklist cover?

How can manufacturers prepare for an SQF audit?

Benefits of SQF Food Manufacturing Audit Checklist