Are IFS Certified factories safer for consumers than non-certified ones insights from experts

When choosing products, many wonder if certifications like IFS (International Featured Standards) truly guarantee safer food. This question has sparked discussions among experts, including a certification company owner and a lean food safety consultant who have known each other for 20 years. Their shared experience dates back to a TUV Nord training on IFS version 4 in 2006, providing valuable insights into how IFS certification impacts food safety.

IFS v4 in-house training -2006, TUV Nord, Hanover. Porntip Phank (Thailand), Cemal Kara, lead expert and owner of AGFOCERT https://agfocert.com/ and Gergana Aleksandrova.

What makes IFS Certification different?

IFS certification is not just a label- it represents a comprehensive approach to food safety management. Unlike basic compliance checks, IFS requires factories to meet strict criteria that go beyond paperwork.

Rigorous auditing process

IFS-certified factories undergo thorough audits that assess every aspect of their food safety system. These audits are often unannounced, which means inspectors see the factory’s everyday operations rather than a prepared scenario. This approach reveals the true state of hygiene, process control, and safety practices.

For example, during an unannounced audit, inspectors might check how allergens are handled during production or whether cleaning procedures are consistently followed. Factories that fail to maintain standards in real-time risk losing their certification.

Knock-Out Criteria ensure zero tolerance for critical failures

One of the most important features of IFS certification is the inclusion of knock-out (KO) criteria. These are 10 specific requirements that factories must meet without exception. If a factory fails any KO criterion, such as proper HACCP (Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Points) implementation or allergen management, it automatically fails the entire audit.

This zero-tolerance policy ensures that critical food safety issues are addressed immediately. For instance, if a factory cannot demonstrate effective allergen segregation, it cannot be certified, protecting consumers from potential allergic reactions.

How IFS Food version 8 strengthens safety measures

The latest version of the IFS Food standard, version 8, marks a significant shift from paper-based compliance to active food safety management. It introduces stronger requirements in several areas:

Enhanced allergen management

Allergens are a leading cause of food recalls and consumer harm. IFS Food v8 requires factories to implement strict controls for allergen segregation, labeling, and handling. This reduces the risk of cross-contamination and protects consumers with allergies.

For example, factories must have dedicated production lines or thorough cleaning protocols between allergen and non-allergen products. Labels must clearly identify allergens, and staff receive regular training on allergen risks.

Food Fraud prevention

Food fraud, such as ingredient adulteration or mislabeling, poses serious safety risks. IFS certification requires factories to take proactive steps to detect and prevent fraud. This includes supplier verification, ingredient traceability, and risk assessments.

A factory sourcing spices, for instance, must verify the authenticity of suppliers and test ingredients to avoid contamination or substitution with harmful substances.

Continuous Improvement Culture

IFS certification is not a one-time achievement. Factories must renew their certification annually through audits, encouraging continuous improvement. This ongoing process fosters a culture of food safety where management and staff remain vigilant and responsive to new risks.

The certification process motivates factories to update procedures, invest in staff training, and adopt new technologies that enhance safety.

Real-World Impact of IFS Certification on Food Safety

The combination of unannounced audits, KO criteria, allergen controls, and fraud prevention creates a robust safety net. Studies and industry reports show that IFS-certified factories have fewer recalls and safety incidents compared to uncertified ones.

For example, a European food manufacturer reported a 30% reduction in allergen-related complaints after achieving IFS certification. Another case involved a dairy producer who detected and stopped a supplier’s fraudulent ingredient before it reached consumers, thanks to IFS-required controls.

These examples demonstrate how IFS certification translates into safer products on store shelves.

What consumers should know about IFS Certification

While IFS certification raises safety standards, consumers should understand what it means in practice:

• Certification is a strong indicator of safety but does not guarantee zero risk. Food safety depends on many factors, including supply chain integrity and factory practices.

• Look for the IFS logo on product packaging or ask manufacturers about their certification status.

• Certified factories undergo regular checks that help maintain high safety levels over time.

• Certification encourages transparency and accountability within the food industry.

  
  

Consumers who prioritize safety can use IFS certification as one of several criteria when choosing food products.

Summary

Products from IFS-certified factories generally offer a higher safety profile than those from non-certified facilities. The certification’s rigorous auditing, knock-out criteria, enhanced allergen management, food fraud prevention, and continuous improvement requirements create a strong framework for food safety.

The evolution to IFS Food version 8 highlights a move from simple compliance to active management, ensuring factories maintain a culture of safety year-round. For consumers, this means greater confidence in the products they buy.

Choosing IFS-certified products supports safer food production and encourages manufacturers to uphold high standards. When shopping, look for certification as a sign that a factory takes food safety seriously.