Hygiene and safety of food does not end with its production, but also applies to the way it is packed, stored and distributed. This is why standards for packaging industry come in. BRCGS Global Standard for Packaging Materials is an internationally- recognized standard that is applicable for manufacturers of packaging and packaging materials that cater to both food and non-food sectors.
For the food industry, it is important to know what materials the product should be packaged in, as they could react with the food product and make it unsafe for consumption. Care must be taken to ensure that the packaging material and process of packaging does not have adverse effects on the food or beverage. BRCGS Global Standard for Packaging Materials specific guidelines for food packaging as well as other industries.
The Standard now provides a robust framework for all types of packaging manufacturer to assist them in the production of safe packaging materials and to manage product quality to meet customers’ requirements, while maintaining legal compliance. Certification against the Standard is recognised by many brand owners, retailers, food service companies and manufacturers around the world when assessing the capabilities of their suppliers.
- Features and Benefits
- Applicability
- Consulting Methodology
BRCGS Global Standard for Packaging Materials emphasizes on the safety and quality of the materials used in packaging but also different processes involved like the printing and chemical processes. Different technologies that are covered under this standard include:
- Glass manufacture and forming
- Papermaking and conversion
- Metal forming
- Rigid plastics forming
- Flexible plastics manufacture
- Other manufacturing
- Print processes
- Chemical processes
Having this certification benefits the packaging companies in numerous ways as the standard entail that the organizations set up an effective product safety and quality management system. Although the benefits might not be immediate, the certification helps customers know that the enterprise follows the requirements of a global standard. This in itself will build on the credibility of the company and create a brand image that customers can trust. BRCGS Packaging Materials certification gives companies a competitive advantage while pitching for a potential customer.
Major Drivers for Certification:
- Globally recognized
- Brand & Consumer Confidence
- Marketing Tools for Sites
- Achievable & Cost-Effective
Global Standard Packaging Materials Issue 7 and the associated Key Changes document were published on the BRCGS website and on Participate on Monday 28 October 2024.
Throughout the development of Issue 7, the objective was to clarify and strengthen the requirements. This enhanced focus on the fundamental concepts aims to reduce the frequency of the most common non-conformities seen with Issue 7. The themes that were considered include:
- The continued evolution of product safety culture
- Update to the requirements for hazard analysis and risk assessment systems in line with Codex Alimentarius
- Continual improvement processes and implementation of systems
- Global APicability and consideration of current GFSI Benchmarking requirements
Issue 7 brings the Standard up to date with current industry trends and practices, for example the inclusion of single-use disposable products. This ensures that it continues to add value and instil trust for all stakeholders in the industry.
There will be a six-month transition period for sites and auditors to review the standard, complete training and prepare before the first audits are performed. Therefore, Global Standards Packaging Materials Issue 7 audits will commence on 28 April 2025.
Key Changes:
Updates to Hazard Analysis and Risk Assessment- Revisions were made to this section in order to more clearly align with Codex Alimentarius. The specific requirements for this are clearly documented in the subclauses.
Product Safety Culture- Enhanced requirements for the development, implementation, and auditing for product safety culture.
Management of Outsourced Processes- Clarification on outsourced activities. There are now requirements added to ensure outside processes are agreed upon, documented, and are reviewed within the HARA plan.
Allergen Management- Requirement for an allergen risk assessment and when allergens are identified, implement appropriate controls and training for personnel.
Traceability- Clarification on testing of the traceability system has been given in this BRCGS Global Standard Packaging Materials Issue 7 and emphasis has been given to the importance of traceability exercises.
Single Use Disposable Products- Single use products, such as paper cups and napkins are
now included with this BRCGS Global Standard Packaging Materials certification standard.
BRCGS Global Standard for Packaging Materials applies to any company in the packaging industry, regardless of what sector it caters to. However, this standard is particularly popular with packaging companies that mainly deal with the food and drink industry. Since the packaging for the food and drink industry has detailed specifications on permissible materials and techniques used, this standard applies best and is recognized by global food and drink industry.
The standard offers a guideline for packaging materials for conversion or printing and also for an industry where additional processing or restocking is required. This certification applies to the manufacturing of consumer disposable goods as well.
The BRCGS Global Standard for Packaging Materials Issue 6 has many minute specifications that must be implemented in phases. It is an articulate process that needs time and efforts.
Technocrat Consultants guides companies to make changes in their operations to acquire this standard. We offer simple yet effective solutions for companies to meet their goals of sustainable growth.