SQF vs BRC Certification: Which One Is Right for Your Facility & How to Ensure a Smooth Audit

When it comes to earning global trust and meeting customer requirements, two food safety certifications stand out: SQF (Safe Quality Food) and BRCGS (Brand Reputation through Compliance Global Standard).

Both certifications are recognized worldwide under the Global Food Safety Initiative (GFSI)—but the best choice for your facility depends on your industry requirements, customer demands, and internal capabilities.

In this guide, we break down the key differences between SQF and BRCGS, help you determine which one fits your business, and outline how to achieve a smooth, stress-free audit experience.

What is SQF Certification?

The SQF Program is a rigorous, risk-based food safety and quality certification designed to ensure food is manufactured, prepared, and handled according to global standards.

Key Features of SQF:

• Highly structured Food Safety & Quality Codes

• Strong focus on HACCP, documentation, and verification3

• Considered one of the most detailed GFSI schemes

• Often required by major U.S. retailers and food brands

• Uses Levels (e.g., Food Safety vs. Quality + Food Safety)

Best for:

Manufacturers who need a robust, document-heavy, HACCP-centered program and sell to retailers who specifically require SQF certification.

What is BRCGS Certification?

The BRC Global Standard for Food Safety is widely used across Europe, Canada, and global supply chains. It focuses heavily on consistency, site culture, and operational controls.

Key Features of BRCGS:

• Strong emphasis on operational culture and continuous improvement

• Requires unannounced audit option (depending on the program)

• Detailed requirements for environmental monitoring and hygiene

• Graded audit results (AA, A, B, C, D)

Best for:

Manufacturers exporting internationally or working with large retail and private-label brands—especially in Europe and Canada.

SQF vs BRCGS: What’s the Difference?

FeatureSQFBRCGSGeographyStrong in the U.S.Strong in Europe & global marketsAudit StylePass/Fail scoringLetter-grade scoring (AA–D)DocumentationVery heavy documentation requirementsBalanced but thoroughFocusFood safety + qualityCulture, hygiene, and operational controlCustomer DemandRequired by many U.S. retailersRequired by many global retail brandsUnannounced AuditOptional depending on codeOften required

In short:

• Choose SQF if your customers want SQF, or if you need a detailed, compliance-heavy food safety program.

• Choose BRCGS if your supply chain is global, or if your customers require BRC for private label or imported products.

How to Decide Which Certification Your Company Needs

Ask yourself these three questions:

1. Who are your customers?

Many buyers specify which GFSI program they require. Your certification needs to match their expectations.

2. What are your operational strengths?

• Strong documentation control → SQF may be easier.

• Strong culture & operational practices → BRCGS may fit better.

3. Where do you plan to grow?

Exporting? Targeting private-label? Partnering with big retailers?
Your certification should support your long-term goals.

How to Ensure a Smooth SQF or BRCGS Audit

Whether you choose SQF or BRCGS, preparation is the key to success. Here’s how to avoid surprises and pass your audit with confidence:

1. Maintain year-round documentation

Auditors expect fully compliant records—not paperwork created last minute.

2. Conduct internal audits regularly

Don’t wait for audit season. Quarterly internal audits catch issues early.

3. Train your entire team—not just Quality Management

Both SQF and BRC emphasize employee awareness and food safety culture.

4. Stay on top of Corrective Actions (CAPAs)

Unresolved issues are one of the most common audit findings.

5. Automate your food safety system

Automation ensures consistency even if staff turnover occurs.
Manual systems lead to:

• Missing documents

• Lost verification records

• Unfinished CAPAs

• Gaps in training

Using automation like Food Safety Plus 2.0 ensures:

✅ All documents securely stored
✅ Task reminders and audit alerts
✅ Complete traceability
✅ Faster internal audits
✅ Easy onboarding for new staff

This makes SQF or BRC audits easier, faster, and significantly less stressful.

Choosing Between SQF and BRC? Need Help Getting Audit Ready?

Whether your facility is moving toward SQF certification, BRCGS certification, or simply wants to improve compliance, our team can help you prepare with confidence.

Our consultants have 30+ years of industry experience, including working with global companies like Dole, Nestlé, and Coca-Cola.

We guide facilities through:
✅ Certification preparation
✅ Document management
✅ HACCP plans
✅ Internal audits
✅ Gap assessments
✅ Implementation of Food Safety Plus 2.0

Ready for support with SQF or BRC certification?

Click below to book a call with our team:

👉 Book a Consultation with GFSC Group

Our experts will help you choose the right certification path — and make your next audit smooth, organized, and fully compliant.